Speaking on Wednesday, November 12, during an interview, Ruth, who is also the sister to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, said she has what it takes to succeed her late brother and compete against President William Ruto.
“Some leaders have already declared interest in the Kisumu gubernatorial race, but nothing stops me from contesting for the presidency. I have all it takes to run for the country’s top political seat,” she stated confidently.
Ruth explained that while she initially considered vying for the Kisumu governorship, her current focus is to stabilise and strengthen the ODM party before pursuing her political ambitions.
She criticised certain party members, including Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi and Uriri MP Mark Nyamita, accusing them of creating divisions within ODM. Ruth dismissed the “orphan tag” being used by some leaders following Raila’s death, terming it politically immoral and unnecessary.
“This is not the first time we have lost a leader. When one leader goes down, another must rise. We cannot brand ourselves as orphans,” she remarked.
Ruth also commented on the emerging opposition alliance reportedly led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. She downplayed their influence, maintaining that ODM remains part of the broad-based government until the next election cycle.
“Kalonzo might end up joining President Ruto’s camp, leaving Gachagua and Fred Matiang’i to battle for the opposition flag. As for us, we will decide in 2027 which team to work with, as directed by our people,” she concluded.
