Kaluma to Ruth Odinga: Join Gachagua if you want and leave ODM alone
By Mabonga Makhanu, May 13, 2026Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has told Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga that she is free to join former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s camp if she wishes but should leave the ODM party alone.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the outspoken MP, who has been critical of Ruth Odinga in recent days, also aimed at her alongside Siaya governor James Orengo.
He emphasised that respect for ODM party leader Oburu Odinga and the party organs is non-negotiable, stating that no political movement can survive without strong institutions, discipline, and sanctions.
He added that the ODM party will remain part of the broad-based government beyond 2027, as guided by the party leadership.
Kaluma further stated that those who disagree with the party’s direction are free to align with an alternative but should not interfere with its internal structure or operations.
“Some people think we are either blind or stupid! Respect for the ODM Party Leader, Dr Oburu Oginga, PhD, and the party organs is non-negotiable. No movement can survive without strong institutions, discipline and sanctions,” Kaluma stated.
“The ODM Party is in the broad-based government beyond 2027, as Baba guided and decreed. Join Gachagua alone if you don’t want our alliance with President Ruto.”
Ruth-Mbadi feud
This comes at a time when there is a feud within the ODM party between Ruth Odinga and Treasury CS John Mbadi, with a public spat emerging between the two leaders.
The disagreement began after a statement from Ruth Odinga, which followed remarks made by John Mbadi while at the Coast. During the forum, he attacked Ruth, accusing her of trying to be authoritative and disrespecting Oburu Odinga.
Ruth Odinga’s rebuttal
This sparked a series of rebuttals from Ruth Odinga.
Ruth said she was the only member of the Odinga family present at the retreat, noting that her brother and ODM party leader Oburu Oginga did not attend the meeting. She described Mbadi’s remarks as directed at the Odinga family and the legacy associated with the party’s formation and growth.
The push and pull between the two leaders has caused concern among other members within the ODM party.