Ruth Odinga. Photo/Courtesy
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has warned that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is being hurried into a coalition arrangement that could expose the party to political risks ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking after a television interview on Wednesday evening, Ruth dismissed claims of divisions within the Odinga family, saying disagreements should not be mistaken for disunity.
She described the family as firmly united, noting that open debate has always been part of its democratic tradition.
Ruth said the interview came at a reflective moment, marking 32 years since the death of her father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and just months after the burial of ODM founding leader Raila Odinga and the passing of her sister, Beryl.
She used the occasion to address both family and party matters that have attracted public speculation.
On ODM’s political direction, Ruth said she does not belong to any internal faction but supports the broad-based government framework championed by Raila Odinga before his death, anchored on a ten-point agenda.
However, she cautioned that entering a coalition too early could leave the party carrying government failures without sufficient political leverage.
She urged ODM to respect its internal structures, citing the recent Central Management Committee meeting in Kilifi and calling for a National Executive Committee meeting to allow wider consultations.
Ruth further proposed town hall meetings across the country to gather views from grassroots members before any binding decision is made.
The legislator also questioned the source of funds allegedly being used to push for an early coalition deal, warning that money-driven decisions risk alienating party supporters.
She argued that ODM’s strength has historically come from popular support and strong representation, stressing that no political deal should ever be made without the people at the centre.