" Am Not in Tutam" Raila's Younger Sister Says, Asks The Clergy To Do This For Raila’s Sake

Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has taken a firm stand amid the deepening divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement, declaring that she does not belong to either the “Tutam” or “Wantam” factions currently pulling the party in different directions.

In a strongly worded appeal, Ruth aligned herself not with any camp but with the legacy of her late brother, Raila Odinga. 

She emphasized that her loyalty lies with the ideals, structures, and vision he established, warning that ongoing internal wrangles risk destroying what he spent decades building.

Ruth described the infighting within ODM as a dangerous distraction, particularly the growing split between leaders perceived to support President William Ruto’s second-term ambitions and those opposing it. 

According to her, the party should instead be focused on preserving its identity and strengthening its role in national politics.

Going beyond political commentary, she made a direct appeal to religious leaders to step in and mediate before the divisions become irreversible. 

Ruth called on the clergy to bring together key figures from both sides of the divide for dialogue and reconciliation.

She specifically urged religious leaders to convene members of the Linda Mwananchi faction, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Senator Geoffrey Osotsi, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, alongside the faction associated with current party leader Oburu Odinga.

Ruth framed her message as more than a political position, describing it as a personal plea rooted in grief and concern over her brother’s legacy. 

She warned that without unity, ODM risks losing its influence and relevance as a major political force in the country.

Once regarded as one of Kenya’s most formidable opposition parties, ODM is now grappling with internal fragmentation marked by rival rallies, public accusations, and competing strategies. 

Ruth noted that such divisions undermine the discipline and cohesion that previously defined the party.

By calling on the church—an institution she described as neutral and respected across political lines—Ruth expressed hope that dialogue can succeed where political efforts have failed. 

She argued that religious leaders are uniquely positioned to foster reconciliation without the baggage of factional loyalty.