Highlights
- Former President Uhuru Kenyatta did not attend the ODM Founder’s Dinner in Mombasa despite receiving an official invitation
- Uhuru sent his greetings through Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna
- The former president praised ODM’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy and honored the late Raila Odinga
- Attendees welcomed Uhuru’s goodwill gesture despite his absence
Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta he did not attend the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Founders Dinner in Mombasa, although he was officially invited along with President William Ruto.
Source: Getty Images
The popular gathering brought together ODM politicians, elected officials, and supporters to honor the legacy of the party’s founder and reflect on his journey over the years.
Although President Ruto also did not attend the event, it was Uhuru’s absence that stood out, especially due to his political relationship with the late ODM leader Raila Odinga during the handshake era of 2018.
However, Uhuru sent his greetings through the Nairobi senator Edwin Sifunawho delivered a message on his behalf to the audience.
In his short message, the former Head of State thanked the party for the invitation and expressed his sincere wishes to the ODM fraternity. He recognized the party’s role in shaping Kenya’s democratic development and paid tribute to the late Raila Odinga’s efforts in promoting national unity and reform.
Those in attendance received the message warmly, interpreting it as a sign of goodwill that continues despite Uhuru’s physical absence.
The event ended with a call to strengthen commitment to ODM’s core principles of democracy, inclusion, and social justice—values that have long defined the party’s position in Kenya’s political landscape.
What Ruto told ODM in Mombasa
The event, which brought together veteran politicians who were the founders of the Orange party, marked the culmination of the three-year anniversary celebrations of ODM@20 which started on November 13.
The President paid tribute to the late Raila Odinga’s sacrifices for the party, warning that the current internal divisions are jeopardizing his vision of ODM as a national political force with presence across the country.
Ruto he urged the current leadership to protect the unity of the party and preserve Raila’s legacy.
“People who are now in charge of the management of this party, please, I beg you not to weaken the spirit of ODM, do not allow this party to enter into arguments or divide the party. This party must be strong. If not for anything else, for the sake of Mr. Raila Odinga and his legacy,” the president said.
How ODM created Kenya’s democracy
The President emphasized that parties like ODM are the pillars of Kenya’s democracy, and that internal disputes undermine the purpose for which the movement was founded.
Ruto acknowledged ODM as a powerful political institution that has inspired emerging parties like his UDA, adding that a strong democracy is built on such parties.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke
