'ODM Is the Woman Everybody Wants to Marry,’ Says Ruth Odinga

Ruth Odinga has described the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as a formidable and highly sought-after political force, urging members to resolve internal wrangles and reunite ahead of future political negotiations.

Speaking in a televised interview on KTN News, Odinga likened ODM to “the woman everybody wants to marry,” underscoring the party’s enduring appeal despite challenges following the death of her brother, Raila Odinga, in October 2025.

She called on rival factions within the party to close ranks, arguing that unity would strengthen ODM’s hand in coalition talks and upcoming electoral contests. According to her, a united front would enable the party to clearly state its demands and strategic direction in the evolving political landscape.

Odinga also defended ODM’s right to field a presidential candidate in the next general election, dismissing suggestions that the party should forgo the top seat. She maintained that any qualified member should be free to vie for the presidency under the ODM banner.

Her remarks come amid deepening divisions within the party over its stance towards William Ruto and the emerging 2027 political alignments.

One faction linked to Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, and backed by leaders such as James Orengo and Godfrey Osotsi, opposes any move seen as supporting Ruto’s re-election bid. They argue that ODM’s identity is rooted in reformist politics and robust opposition oversight.

In contrast, a rival camp led by Oburu Odinga favours maintaining the current broad-based political arrangement, viewing engagement as a pragmatic strategy to secure development gains and preserve national influence.

Although both sides profess loyalty to the late Raila Odinga, tensions escalated after Sifuna’s removal as secretary-general — a decision later suspended by the court pending determination of his legal challenge — deepening the party’s internal power struggle.