Her remarks come amid growing speculation over whether ODM may back President William Ruto’s re-election bid.
Speaking during a public event in Kisumu, Ms. Odinga cautioned party members and political commentators against making premature statements or assumptions regarding ODM's future alliances or presidential endorsements.
She emphasized that any such decision lies solely with Raila Odinga, who has led the party for decades and remains its undisputed figurehead.
“The decision on where ODM stands in 2027, and who we support, will be made by our party leader Raila Amollo Odinga. No one else speaks for the party on such matters,” said Ms. Odinga.
Her comments appear aimed at quelling internal debates and public speculation triggered by shifting political dynamics and recent signs of détente between President Ruto and some ODM-affiliated leaders.
Notably, Raila Odinga has held several meetings with Ruto in recent months, largely tied to his African Union Commission chairmanship bid — fueling curiosity about potential realignments.
However, Ruth Odinga reiterated that such engagements should not be misinterpreted as political endorsements or policy shifts.
“Let us not confuse diplomacy or national interest with party decisions. Raila will speak, and when he does, the entire party will follow that direction.”
Her statement comes at a time when the political landscape is beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections, with leaders across the spectrum jockeying for influence and positioning their blocs for potential coalitions.
Ruth Odinga, the sister to Raila Odinga and a long-time ODM stalwart, is seen as a key voice in Nyanza politics.
Her message shows the centralization of decision-making within ODM, where Raila remains the ultimate authority.
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