Speaking during an interview with Nam Lolwe FM, the outspoken ODM leader and sister to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga said she is qualified and ready to face off against President William Ruto if she decides to run.
“Nothing stops me from contesting for the presidency. I have all it takes to run for the country’s top seat,” Ruth said.
Ruth affirmed that she would only vie under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a party she helped found. She emphasized the need to strengthen ODM before focusing on personal ambitions.
“I am a founding member of ODM, and if I am to contest for any position in 2027, it can only be through the Orange Party. But in what state will the party be if we don’t work together to make it vibrant again?” she questioned.
The Kisumu legislator said her main priority now is rebuilding the ODM Party to make it a national force beyond its traditional strongholds in Nyanza and the Coast. She urged party members and aspirants to unite and expand ODM’s base across the country.
“Those eyeing various seats under the ODM ticket should join me in ensuring our party grows beyond the usual regions. We must attract new members and strengthen our presence in all parts of Kenya,” she said.
Ruth noted that ODM must remain a “safe space” for all its supporters — especially the youth and women — who believe in Raila Odinga’s vision of social justice, equality, and good governance.
Her statement comes amid growing discussions within ODM about succession politics following Raila Odinga’s indication that he might not vie again. Party leaders have been calling for a new direction to maintain unity and relevance ahead of 2027.