During an interview with Citizen TV Winnie Odinga addressed the public reaction to the nomination of her mother, Ida Odinga, to a state position by President Ruto — a move that has attracted both praise and criticism across the political divide.
“I am extremely proud of her; the whole family is proud of her,” Winnie said. “She deserves it. She stood on her own for the past 40 years.”
Defending Ida Odinga’s record, Winnie described her as a steadfast advocate for women’s rights and democratic values, noting her long history of activism independent of her husband’s political career.
“She stood firm, loyal and has fought for the rights of women in this country,” she said.
Ida Odinga has been a prominent figure in Kenya’s civil society and women’s movements for decades, often working behind the scenes on social justice and empowerment initiatives. Her nomination has reignited debate about the involvement of opposition-linked figures in government appointments, with supporters viewing it as recognition of merit and critics questioning the political implications.
EALA Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga opened up about growing internal tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), alleging intimidation and political coercion targeting party members following the appointment of Ida Odinga by President William Ruto.
Winnie claimed that ODM members are increasingly facing pressure to demonstrate loyalty to the current administration, warning that dissenting voices are being sidelined within the party.
“People are being intimidated in ODM,” Winnie said. “People are being de-whipped simply for showing up on that stage with me. We have reached a situation where you are being told to fill out forms on whether you support the regime of the day. If you do, you will be given TSC slots; if you don’t, God knows what happens to you.”
Her remarks come at a time when ODM, Kenya’s main opposition party, is navigating a delicate transition following the political rapprochement between President Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga. The cooperation between the two camps has sparked debate within ODM, with some members welcoming it as a step toward national stability, while others fear it may dilute the party’s opposition role.
Winnie’s comments suggest that the internal disagreements have escalated into punitive actions against those perceived as critical or non-aligned. While she did not name specific individuals involved in the alleged intimidation, her statements point to a broader concern about shrinking democratic space within the party.
Despite the challenges, Winnie expressed confidence in ODM’s interim leadership, praising Dr Oburu Oginga, who is currently serving as acting party leader.
“I think Dr Oburu Oginga is a wonderful acting party leader in this transition period and he is steadying the ship,” she said. “This is not a very easy ship to steady, but he is weathering the storm.”
She emphasized that Oburu’s leadership is transitional and inclusive, noting that he has repeatedly stated his intention to pave the way for younger leaders within the party.
“He has said many times that he is acting transitionally and will make space for other young people,” Winnie added, framing his role as one focused on continuity rather than consolidation of power.
The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of ODM’s future direction, particularly after several party figures accepted government appointments or appeared alongside Kenya Kwanza leaders at public events. Critics argue that these developments blur the lines between government and opposition, potentially weakening parliamentary oversight.
Winnie also addressed public reaction to the nomination of her mother, Ida Odinga, to a state position by President Ruto — a move that has attracted both praise and criticism across the political divide.
“I am extremely proud of her; the whole family is proud of her,” Winnie said. “She deserves it. She stood on her own for the past 40 years.”
Defending Ida Odinga’s record, Winnie described her as a steadfast advocate for women’s rights and democratic values, noting her long history of activism independent of her husband’s political career.
“She stood firm, loyal and has fought for the rights of women in this country,” she said.
Ida Odinga has been a prominent figure in Kenya’s civil society and women’s movements for decades, often working behind the scenes on social justice and empowerment initiatives. Her nomination has reignited debate about the involvement of opposition-linked figures in government appointments, with supporters viewing it as recognition of merit and critics questioning the political implications.
Political analysts say Winnie’s remarks highlight the delicate balancing act ODM faces as it repositions itself in a rapidly evolving political landscape. With sections of the party engaging the government while others resist, maintaining internal cohesion remains a major challenge.
The allegations of intimidation, if substantiated, could raise concerns about internal democracy within political parties — a cornerstone of Kenya’s multiparty system. At the same time, Winnie’s endorsement of transitional leadership and youth inclusion signals a possible generational shift within ODM.
As the party navigates this uncertain period, the coming months are expected to test its unity, ideological clarity, and capacity to adapt without losing its identity as a champion of democratic accountability.
For now, Winnie Odinga’s candid remarks have added a new dimension to the national conversation, placing ODM’s internal dynamics firmly in the public spotlight.