Kisumu Woman Representative and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s sister, Ruth Odinga, has issued a strong warning against attempts to sow division within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), emphasising that the party belongs to all its members and must remain united.

Speaking passionately during her brother’s funeral on Sunday, October 19, 2025, Ruth urged ODM members to resist internal wrangles and instead safeguard the unity and strength of the party that her late brother dedicated his life to building.

She stressed that ODM must remain one cohesive movement, warning against the emergence of rival factions seeking to control the party.

According to Ruth, the unity of ODM is not only essential for its survival but also for the continuation of Raila Odinga’s legacy of democracy, justice, and national cohesion.

Ruth reiterated that ODM must be strong and united, insisting that there cannot be one ODM led by some individuals, another by others, and yet another left to a few people.

She reminded those now seeking to take charge of the party that they were not there when it was founded, urging them to respect its history and the sacrifices made by its pioneers.

“ODM must be united and strong. There cannot be one ODM led by some people, another ODM led by others, and yet another left to a few individuals. ODM belongs to all of us. Some of those now trying to take it over do not even know how it started. We must go to any negotiation table with a strong and united ODM.’ Ruth stated.

Simmering conflicts in ODM

Her remarks come at a time when reports of growing disunity within ODM have surfaced, with claims that some members are manoeuvring to take control of the party following Raila Odinga’s death.

The tensions became apparent after Embakasi East MP Babu Owino defended himself against claims that he had incited youths to chant his name at Raila’s Karen home on the day of the former Prime Minister’s passing.

Babu dismissed the accusations, affirming his loyalty to Raila’s legacy and stating that he would never seek to undermine it.

The youthful MP later expressed fears for his safety, stating that there was a plan to harm him during the funeral events in Bondo.