Ruth Odinga dismisses claims of family rift, declares Kisumu gubernatorial bid

Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has broken her silence on claims of division within the Odinga family, dismissing reports of a feud as the work of individuals seeking to drive a wedge between relatives following the death of her brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Speaking on Ramogi TV on Wednesday evening, Ruth opened up about the family's ongoing mourning process and the political turbulence that has gripped the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party in the wake of the passing of its longtime leader Raila.

"Raila was loved by many, and I can say up to now mourners are still coming at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi," Ruth said, revealing that the family continues to receive condolence visits at their rural home in Siaya County.

The legislator reflected on personal lessons learned during this difficult period, stating: "I learnt several things after Raila's death. I learnt to be humble; you cannot force people to love you."

Addressing reports of a rift between different branches of the Odinga family, Ruth was categorical in her denial.

"A few individuals are propagating divisions and running with the agenda between the Odinga family and Oburu's. They are lying," she declared, referring to her brother Dr. Oburu Oginga, who has assumed the role of ODM party leader following Raila's demise.

Ruth specifically defended her niece Winnie Odinga against suggestions of family discord.

"Winnie Odinga cannot come out in a fight with her father Oburu, whom she grew up close to," she asserted, adding that she would personally intervene if necessary.

"I can make Winnie Odinga come down and talk to her in case she said something seen as insulting to someone we all see as, Jaramogi family, as our father."

The Woman Representative lamented that the family has been unable to properly process their grief due to ongoing political pressures.

"My clan has not gotten an opportunity to mourn well since the demise of Raila Odinga," she said.

Turning to the state of ODM, Ruth acknowledged that the party is experiencing internal turbulence, but traced its roots to before Raila's death.

"The chaotic scenes in ODM now started way back when Raila Odinga was still alive," she noted, pushing back against narratives that the party's troubles are solely a post-Raila phenomenon.

She emphasized the national character of the party, stating firmly, "ODM is a national party and not a Nyanza affair."

Despite the internal challenges, Ruth expressed confidence in the party's future, describing internal competition as healthy.

"The sweetness of a political party is the wrangles inside – if they are not bringing the party down," she said.

Ruth also threw her full support behind Dr. Oburu's leadership: "I fully support the team of Dr. Oburu as the party leader and the group of young leaders in the ODM party."

However, she cautioned that the party must address its internal issues before moving forward with key organizational processes.

"ODM must make the party habitable before we can go for the National Delegates Convention (NDC) that is being advocated for," Ruth said.

In a significant political declaration, Ruth announced her intention to vie for the Kisumu Governor's seat.

"I am the only one qualified for the Governor race in Kisumu. I want ODM members to consolidate and make the party strong," she said confidently.

The interview marks one of Ruth Odinga's most comprehensive public statements since her brother's passing, addressing both family dynamics and the political future of the party Raila built over decades of opposition politics.