BONDO, Kenya – Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has threatened to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) if remaining in the party means compromising her commitment to justice, democracy and the rights of Kenyans.
Speaking 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, Ruth said her loyalty was ultimately to the principles he fought for rather than to a political party.
“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.”
Her remarks signal a possible break with ODM if she concludes that the party’s political direction conflicts with the values associated with Raila’s legacy.
Ruth Responds To Tension At Raila’s Memorial
Ruth also praised the thousands of mourners who turned up to honour Raila, saying their presence and conduct had demonstrated their commitment to his memory despite tensions surrounding the event.
She said those who had expected the commemoration to be disrupted had been proved wrong by the turnout.
“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.
Her remarks followed reports of tension and clashes involving rival youth groups at the venue. She alleged that some individuals had arrived carrying stones in the hope of derailing the gathering.
Despite the reported confrontations, the commemoration proceeded, bringing together members of the Odinga family, political leaders and supporters to mark one year since Raila’s death on October 15, 2025.
‘Raila Stood For Democracy And Social Justice’
Beyond the events at the venue, Ruth used the occasion to call for the protection of Kenya’s democratic gains, arguing that Raila’s legacy should be measured by the principles he championed throughout his political career.
She said her late brother fought for a country where citizens could express themselves freely, exercise their rights and speak without fear of intimidation.
“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.
Ruth also recalled the detention and imprisonment Raila endured during his political struggle, presenting his experience as part of the sacrifices he made in pursuit of democratic reform.
She noted that he continued to engage in peaceful politics despite failing to secure the presidency on three occasions.
