Ruth Odinga Declares Kisumu Gubernatorial Bid as ODM Faces Internal Reckoning Ahead of 2027

Kenya, 22 January 2026 - Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has officially declared her intention to run for the Kisumu gubernatorial seat, dismissing claims of a family rift and insisting that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) remains united despite visible internal tensions.

Speaking to party supporters, Ruth said, “These claims of a rift in the family and the party are lies. ODM is national, and it is still united. We have work to do to strengthen our structures and ensure our people are represented.”

Her announcement comes at a critical moment as the party recalibrates itself in preparation for the 2027 General Election, navigating leadership transitions, factional rivalries, and competing strategic interests within its ranks.

Ruth’s candidacy adds another layer to an already crowded Kisumu gubernatorial race.

Among those who have officially declared interest are Senator Prof Tom Ojienda, Deputy Governor of Kisumu County Dr Mathew Owili, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, former MP Ken Obura, and Auditor Rodgers Okeya.

The emergence of these aspirants reflects both the depth of political ambition in ODM’s stronghold and the party’s challenge in balancing local loyalty with broader strategic planning.

Ruth’s entry, however, is seen as an attempt to consolidate party unity and leverage the Odinga family’s enduring influence in the region, signaling that leadership continuity remains central to ODM’s strategy.

Since the passing of former party leader Raila Odinga, ODM has wrestled with visible fault lines. Some members advocate for maintaining a distinct opposition identity, while others lean toward strategic engagement with the ruling coalition to retain political relevance. Ruth’s public insistence on unity suggests an effort to temper factional tensions, emphasizing that disagreements should remain constructive and focus on strengthening party structures rather than undermining cohesion. She urged young leaders to participate actively and responsibly in the party’s decision-making processes, reflecting a conscious effort to build leadership depth ahead of 2027.

The internal contest in Kisumu is more than a local race; it is a microcosm of ODM’s broader challenge of navigating succession, generational change, and coalition considerations. Ruth Odinga’s candidacy underscores the need for the party to reconcile competing interests while projecting strength and credibility to its supporters. Her declaration positions her as both a stabilizing figure within the party and a credible contender, especially as she challenges established politicians like Prof. Ojienda and Dr. Owili, who bring legal and administrative experience, as well as former legislators like Ken Obura and Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, alongside Auditor Rodgers Okeya, each with their own political followings and local networks.