- Ruth Odinga says she is willing to quit ODM if staying in the party means compromising her commitment to justice, democracy and the rights of Kenyans
- The Kisumu Woman Representative spoke during Raila Odinga’s first death anniversary commemoration in Bondo
- Ruth urged Kenyans to defend the principles her late brother championed, insisting that political party loyalty should not come before justice
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has declared she is ready to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) if remaining in the party means compromising her commitment to justice, democracy and Kenyans’ rights.
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Ruth made the remarks during the first anniversary commemoration of her late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, at Migwena Sports Ground in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, October 15.
Addressing mourners, the legislator said Raila’s legacy should be protected by upholding the principles he championed throughout his political career rather than placing loyalty to a political party above the interests of Kenyans.
Her remarks came amid tension at the memorial event, where rival youth groups clashed, threatening to disrupt the gathering.
Ruth, however, expressed satisfaction with the large turnout, saying those who expected the commemoration to fail had been disappointed by the thousands who attended to honour the former prime minister.
“Those who thought this function would not go on have been ashamed. Those who came here carrying stones, thinking that this function would not take place, have also been ashamed,” she said.
She praised the mourners for turning up to pay their respects despite the political tensions surrounding the anniversary.
Why is Ruth Odinga ready to leave ODM?
Beyond addressing the events at Migwena, Ruth used the occasion to reaffirm her commitment to the ideals her brother defended, including democracy, freedom of expression and social justice.
She recalled Raila’s political struggles, including his detention and imprisonment, saying he fought for a country where every citizen could express themselves freely and enjoy their rights without intimidation.
According to Ruth, her brother remained committed to peaceful political engagement despite failing to win the presidency in three elections.
“He stood for the rights of the people, democracy and social justice in this country. He believed that every Kenyan had the right to speak and be heard,” she said.
The lawmaker challenged Kenyans to defend the democratic gains Raila championed, insisting that his legacy should not be compromised for the sake of maintaining political party allegiance.
She maintained that her commitment to justice would take precedence over her membership in ODM, signalling that she would consider leaving the party if necessary.
“If standing with ODM means sacrificing everything to protect justice, then so be it. If I have to move to another party to ensure that justice prevails in Kenya, I will do so,” she said.
“My commitment is not merely to a political party but to the fight for justice, democracy and the rights of every Kenyan.”
Ruth’s remarks come as Raila’s death continues to shape political discussions within ODM and across the country. The former prime minister died on October 15, 2025, and his first death anniversary brought together political leaders, family members and supporters to celebrate his life and reflect on his legacy.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
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