- His sister former prime minister Raila Odinga and Kisumu women’s representative, Ruth Odinga, criticized ODM politicians singing the slogan ‘Tutam’
- Ruth emphasized why the slogan is bad for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), which is currently under the leadership of Siaya senator, Oburu Oginga
- The satirical politician said that members of the party should consider promoting popular leaders at the lower level
Kisumu county women’s representative, Ruth Odingahas warned members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) against joining the popular political song “Tutam”.
Source: Facebook
This is a slogan used by the President’s allies William Ruto to announce his intention to run for a second term.
Speaking during an interview with a local radio station, Ruth said that although ODM remains part of the broader government until the 2027 elections, members should not lose sight of the party’s long-term interests and identity.
“You cannot, as a member of the ODM Party in the wider government, start shouting ‘Tutam’ (meaning two terms of President Ruto). What will be your talking point after the 2027 election?” he asked.
Will Tutam’s statements affect the ODM party?
Ruth, who was the sister of the late prime minister Raila Amolo Odinga, insisted that ODM’s participation in the current political setup was meant to bring stability to the country, not to jeopardize its independence or diminish its role as a major opposition force.
“Our goal right now should be to strengthen the party and find the right candidates who will bring victory. Shouting ‘Tutam’ right now will not add any value to the party,” he said.
Furthermore, Ruth said that they must use the transition period to rebuild, reorganize and restore the trust that his regular followers had in them.
He added that the party should focus on promoting leaders who are popular among their followers rather than those installed through their connections or financial influence.
Ruth praises Oburu’s leadership qualities
Ruth further said that she was optimistic about the new leadership of the ODM party under Siaya senator Oburu Oginga.
He said that he was sure that Oburu would introduce stability and discipline in the internal processes of the party.
The outspoken politician said that people had used Raila’s compassionate leadership style to pass their own agendas.
“We must have strong candidates who are popular on the ground. As a politician, I can always tell who is popular,” he said.
Ruth reiterated her freedom of thought, saying she will continue to support the government when it serves the people and criticize it when it fails to do so.
“I cannot be a member of the praise and worship team even when it is clear that the government is on the wrong track,” he said.
ODM management agreed to support Ruto
His remarks came after some ODM members publicly announced that they would support Ruto for a second term in office.
This move sparked a debate within the party with other members expressing different opinions.
However, on October 27, the ODM party fully endorsed Ruto’s general government until the next general election.
Source: Facebook
The decision was reached during a Central Management Committee (CMC), held at a Nairobi hotel and chaired by Oburu.
Those who attended the meeting included ODM officials such as governors Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay, Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir of Mombasa, among others.
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