Kisumu Woman Rep Ruth Odinga speaks during Raila Odinga first anniversary celebrations at Migwena Cultural Grounds in Bondo Siaya county on October 15, 2026./FAITH MATETE
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has hinted she is ready to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) if necessary to defend justice and democracy, declaring that her loyalty lies with the principles her late brother Raila Odinga fought for.
Speaking during the first anniversary commemoration of the former Prime Minister at Migwena Sports Ground in Bondo, Siaya County on Thursday, Ruth said those who expected the gathering to be disrupted had been embarrassed by the large turnout and dignified conduct of mourners.
She said individuals who allegedly arrived with stones, hoping to derail the event, had failed to stop the commemoration, which proceeded despite tension and clashes involving rival youth groups at the venue.
“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.
Ruth said she was proud of the thousands who turned up to honour Raila, noting that they had demonstrated respect for his memory despite the political tensions surrounding the anniversary.
Her remarks came as the gathering drew political leaders, family members and supporters to remember Raila, who died on October 15, 2025.
Beyond the calls for calm, Ruth used the occasion to make a strong statement on the principles that should guide the country’s politics, saying Raila’s legacy must be defended through a continued commitment to democracy, freedom of expression and social justice.
She said her brother fought for a country where every Kenyan could speak freely and enjoy their rights without fear of intimidation, recalling the detention and imprisonment he endured during his political struggle.
Ruth said Raila remained committed to peaceful political engagement despite missing out on the presidency on three occasions.
“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.
She challenged Kenyans to protect the democratic gains Raila fought for, warning that his legacy should not be sacrificed for the interests of 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.”
