Her remarks have intensified internal disagreements, with rival camps within the party trading accusations over loyalty, transparency, and political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Ruth came out strongly in defence of ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, who has recently faced criticism from some party officials and online commentators after raising concerns about the party’s political agreements and alliances.
Ruth came out strongly in defence of ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, who has recently faced criticism from some party officials and online commentators after raising concerns about the party’s political agreements and alliances.
She argued that Sifuna’s comments reflected long-standing questions within the party about accountability and the direction ODM is taking in its engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
At the centre of the dispute are the high-profile “Linda Ground” rallies that have been held in various parts of the country.
The events, which feature branded merchandise, large tents, transport logistics, and at times helicopter travel for leaders, have drawn attention due to their scale and apparent cost.
Ruth questioned how such expensive activities are being funded at a time when the party has not publicly disclosed a clear source of financing for the campaign.
She noted that concerns about transparency should not be treated as acts of rebellion within the party.
According to her, leaders who ask how political activities are financed are exercising their responsibility to ensure accountability, especially in a party that has historically positioned itself as a champion of good governance and integrity.
The Kisumu lawmaker further raised questions about ODM’s evolving relationship with the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.
The Kisumu lawmaker further raised questions about ODM’s evolving relationship with the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.
She warned that political goodwill should not be mistaken for formal commitment, particularly when previous agreements between ODM leadership and the government have not been fully implemented.
Ruth argued that unfulfilled promises risk weakening trust among party supporters and could leave ODM vulnerable to political manipulation.
Her remarks appeared to be directed at a faction within ODM that has advocated for closer cooperation with the government.
Her remarks appeared to be directed at a faction within ODM that has advocated for closer cooperation with the government.
Critics within the party fear that such engagement could dilute ODM’s opposition identity and confuse supporters who expect the party to maintain a firm stance on key governance and accountability issues.
The internal disagreements come at a sensitive time as ODM begins early positioning for the 2027 elections.
The internal disagreements come at a sensitive time as ODM begins early positioning for the 2027 elections.
While party leaders have called for unity, the public nature of the dispute highlights deeper ideological and strategic differences over whether ODM should pursue cooperation with the government or retain a more confrontational opposition role.
Meanwhile, Sifuna has maintained that raising concerns does not amount to disloyalty. He has stated that his commitment to ODM remains firm, regardless of whether he holds a party office, adding that political movements should allow space for internal debate without resorting to personal attacks.
Meanwhile, Sifuna has maintained that raising concerns does not amount to disloyalty. He has stated that his commitment to ODM remains firm, regardless of whether he holds a party office, adding that political movements should allow space for internal debate without resorting to personal attacks.
