Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga paid an emotional tribute to her late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, nearly two months after his passing.
The Odinga family gathered at St. Peter’s Nyamira ACK Church, their traditional place of worship during Christmas, but this year’s service was notably marked by Raila’s absence. Raila, a celebrated statesman and former leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), died on October 15 in Kerala, India, while recuperating after a short illness.
“The absence of Raila was palpable. It was evidently in the air. Probably said in hushed tones within the pews. But to the church community in Nyamira, there was an unmarked seat whose occupant was missing,” Ruth said.
During the service, Ruth highlighted Raila’s enduring legacy, noting the representation of his vision in the Cabinet, which included five Cabinet secretaries drawn from diverse regions, only two of whom are Luo. She also criticized individuals who have been defaming her brother’s name on social media so soon after his burial.
“It is unfortunate that barely two months after laying Rt. Hon. Raila to rest, some characters are busy defaming his name—and the reputation he worked so hard to build over the years—on social media. Shame on you!” she warned.
In a bold declaration, Ruth also affirmed her readiness to contest the presidency in 2027, asserting that ODM is strong enough to field a candidate for the top seat.
“To the ODM fraternity, if you don’t find someone suitable within ODM ranks to go for the top seat in 2027, talk to me. I am here. I’m ready to face Ruto in 2027. This is a possibility,” she added.
Her remarks come amid growing tension within ODM, with reports suggesting some officials are aligning themselves with the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.
