Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has urged members and supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to remain alert and actively safeguard the party’s political strongholds amid growing competition from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Speaking on Sunday, April 5, Odinga was responding to remarks by UDA leadership signalling intentions to field candidates nationwide, including in regions traditionally considered ODM bastions.
She cautioned against complacency within the party, emphasizing the need for vigilance and sustained grassroots engagement to maintain its dominance in key regions.
Ruth Odinga Urges ODM Supporters to Defend Strongholds Amid UDA Pressure. Photo: Courtesy.
Odinga further called on ODM supporters to consolidate their efforts, strengthen party structures, and ensure the movement remains competitive across all elective positions.
This follows months after Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga urged the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to approach coalition talks with caution.
In January, Odinga emphasized that there is no urgency that should compel the party to rush into a coalition agreement ahead of the 2027 elections. She called on ODM to convene a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to discuss the best path forward.
Odinga highlighted the importance of consulting party members before making any decisions, noting that ODM’s strength lies in its broad membership across the country from Turkana to Kwale, and Wajir to Isebania.
She stressed that the party should engage members through town hall meetings to understand their concerns and incorporate them into any final decision.
She also warned that sidelining members with differing opinions could weaken the party, advocating instead for the creation of platforms where leaders can deliberate internally before presenting decisions to the wider membership.
