Speaking after a meeting with delegates and party officials from Kisumu Central Constituency, Ruth emphasized the need for reconciliation within the party.
The discussions, held at sub-county offices in Kisumu, focused on preparations for upcoming ODM county elections and long-term strategies as the party reorganizes for future political contests.
During the meeting, the veteran politician addressed the ongoing tensions between members linked to the “Linda Mwananchi” and “Linda Ground” factions.
“Let us collapse Linda Mwananchi and Linda Ground and remain with one united ODM,” Ruth said, stressing that internal divisions could weaken the party’s ability to compete effectively in national politics.
According to her, a united ODM will have stronger bargaining power when negotiating coalitions with other political parties ahead of the next general election.
During the meeting, the veteran politician addressed the ongoing tensions between members linked to the “Linda Mwananchi” and “Linda Ground” factions.
“Let us collapse Linda Mwananchi and Linda Ground and remain with one united ODM,” Ruth said, stressing that internal divisions could weaken the party’s ability to compete effectively in national politics.
According to her, a united ODM will have stronger bargaining power when negotiating coalitions with other political parties ahead of the next general election.
She referenced provisions in Kenya’s Political Parties Act which require coalition agreements to be submitted months before elections, noting that the party still has time to resolve internal disputes.
Ruth also dismissed claims circulating in political circles suggesting she had disrespected her elder brother, Oburu Oginga, who currently holds a senior leadership role within ODM.
She clarified that her call for unity should not be interpreted as a challenge to the party leadership.
“I respect him as my party leader and also as my elder brother. We communicate regularly on both family and party matters,” she explained, adding that suggestions of personal rivalry are being spread by individuals seeking to create unnecessary conflict within the party.
Beyond the unity message, Ruth highlighted the importance of youth participation in party leadership. She argued that young people must be actively involved in decision-making processes if ODM hopes to remain relevant and attract new generations of voters.
“Youth voices must be included at every level of leadership,” she said, noting that empowering younger members would strengthen the party’s grassroots networks.
Her remarks come at a delicate moment for ODM following the death of its longtime leader Raila Odinga, whose influence shaped the party for decades.
Ruth also dismissed claims circulating in political circles suggesting she had disrespected her elder brother, Oburu Oginga, who currently holds a senior leadership role within ODM.
She clarified that her call for unity should not be interpreted as a challenge to the party leadership.
“I respect him as my party leader and also as my elder brother. We communicate regularly on both family and party matters,” she explained, adding that suggestions of personal rivalry are being spread by individuals seeking to create unnecessary conflict within the party.
Beyond the unity message, Ruth highlighted the importance of youth participation in party leadership. She argued that young people must be actively involved in decision-making processes if ODM hopes to remain relevant and attract new generations of voters.
“Youth voices must be included at every level of leadership,” she said, noting that empowering younger members would strengthen the party’s grassroots networks.
Her remarks come at a delicate moment for ODM following the death of its longtime leader Raila Odinga, whose influence shaped the party for decades.
Since his passing, debates about the party’s direction, leadership structure, and electoral strategy have exposed internal disagreements among senior figures.
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