Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has declared she will not seek a direct ODM nomination for the Kisumu gubernatorial race in the 2027 General Election. Instead, she insists on participating in the party primaries, emphasizing her commitment to a fair contest.
Speaking ahead of the elections, Ruth underscored that despite her prominent family name, she has never requested special treatment from ODM leadership, including the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. "I never asked for a direct party ticket when Raila Odinga was alive, and I won’t now. All I ask for is a level playing field so that the best carries the day," she said.
Ruth is aiming to succeed Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o as Kisumu’s third governor. Aware of potential assumptions linked to her surname, she has consistently opposed the practice known locally as kubebwa mkono juu, meaning being handed a direct party ticket without regard to grassroots support.
Political Journey and Experience
Her decision to vie for governor is backed by extensive political involvement and leadership experience within Kisumu County. Ruth first ran for the governorship in 2013, shortly after the 2010 Constitution introduced devolved governments. At that time, she was actively engaged in the pro-constitution campaign in Nyanza, led by her brother, ODM leader Dr Oburu Oginga.
She also highlighted her tenure as CEO of a major Kisumu-based company employing over 700 people as a qualification for the leadership role.
During her 2013 bid, some ODM officials expressed concern that her candidacy might affect Raila Odinga’s presidential campaign in the region. Nonetheless, Ruth participated in the party nominations, defeating Jack Ranguma, before eventually stepping down to become his deputy for five years.
In 2017, Ruth supported Nyong’o’s nomination as ODM’s gubernatorial candidate and served as his special adviser on disaster management. She refrained from contesting then due to concerns over her family’s political influence.
In 2022, Ruth contested successfully for the Kisumu Woman Representative seat. She chose to compete in ODM primaries rather than accept a direct nomination, a move she credits with strengthening her political credibility.
Commitment to Fair Competition
Reflecting on her political path, Ruth emphasized the value of competitive nominations. "Had I been handed the ODM certificate on a silver platter in 2022, what would I tell people in 2027?" she remarked.
Her stance signals a clear message against preferential treatment and a call for merit-based political contests within ODM as she prepares for the upcoming gubernatorial race.
