File Photo of Ida Odinga.
EALA MP Winnie Odinga has strongly defended the appointment of her mother, Ida Odinga, as a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) ambassador, framing the nomination as recognition of decades of public service rather than a political favour.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Tuesday night, Winnie said the family welcomed the appointment with pride, arguing that Ida Odinga’s record in leadership, governance, and advocacy justified the decision by President William Ruto.
Winnie described her mother as a seasoned professional whose career has spanned education, governance, and social activism.
She said Ida Odinga’s experience managing institutions and engaging at high levels of society made her well-suited for an international role focused on environmental stewardship.
“I feel pride. She merits this position. She is qualified, educated, and has worked at very high levels of leadership,” Winnie said, adding that her mother had earned respect through consistent service rather than political proximity.
She also pushed back against public criticism that followed the announcement, noting that Ida Odinga had built her own profile long before recent political developments.
According to Winnie, the UNEP role reflects recognition of a lifetime of independent work.
“She stood on her own for the past 40 years. She stood firm, loyal, and fought for the rights of women in this country,” she said.
Winnie further expressed confidence that Ida Odinga would uphold the values expected of a global environmental ambassador, saying she trusted her mother to serve with integrity and responsibility.
“She deserves it, and I believe she is going to do the right thing,” Winnie said.
Ida Odinga, a long-time educationist and women’s rights advocate, has been involved in various leadership and advocacy initiatives over the years.
Her appointment by President Ruto has drawn mixed reactions nationwide, with supporters highlighting her credentials and critics questioning the political context of the nomination.