By Mandere Onyinkwa
Kisumu Member of Parliament Ruth Odinga has defended the right to hold a planned political rally in the lakeside city, warning leaders against undermining constitutional freedoms and fueling divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
In a statement, Odinga termed it “deeply regrettable” that an elected leader would publicly declare that a political rally would not be allowed in Kisumu, saying such remarks set a dangerous precedent.
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“As an elected leader, I took a solemn oath of office to protect and uphold the Constitution of Kenya,” she said.
“That very Constitution contains the Bill of Rights, where the freedoms of movement and association are enshrined as sacred, non-negotiable rights for every Kenyan.”
She emphasized that these freedoms are not only guaranteed under the Constitution but are also anchored in Kenya’s obligations under regional and international human rights treaties.
Odinga said she would not “sit on the fence” as attempts are made to restrict political activity in the region.
“Kisumu is not a theatre for political chaos, as some would want to create a narrative to justify their intended acts,” she said.
“This city belongs to its people, and everyone coming to speak with them — whether they are from the United Opposition, DCP, UDA, or within our own house, ODM — must feel free to do so without fear of intimidation and not as a favor by anyone.”
The ODM Deputy Organizing Secretary also called for unity within the party, invoking its long-standing slogan.
“In my capacity as the Deputy Organizing Secretary of ODM, I have always stood by the ‘gather all, scatter none’ mantra,” she said.
Odinga noted that the team expected to visit Kisumu on Sunday, April 26, identifies with ODM, urging members to reflect on the party’s core values at what she described as a pivotal moment.
“At this pivotal moment in our party’s journey, I urge all of us to reflect on the values that have always defined ODM: unity, inclusivity, and mutual respect,” she said.
Referencing scripture, she added: “We are reminded in the Holy Scriptures, in Mark 9:40, that ‘whoever is not against us is for us.’ This is a powerful call to embrace those who may not walk exactly the same path as we do, but who remain fundamentally committed to the broader vision we all share for this nation.”
She cautioned against internal divisions, saying debates surrounding the rally should not fracture the party.
“Whether one aligns with ‘Linda Ground’ or ‘Linda Mwananchi,’ we must remember that we are all ODM,” she said.
“Our strength has never come from forced uniformity, but from our diversity of thought, united by a common purpose to serve the people and uphold democratic ideals.”
Odinga urged leaders and supporters alike to foster dialogue instead of confrontation.
“Let us not close doors on one another. Instead, let us create space for dialogue and collective progress. The people of Kisumu, and indeed all of Kenya, look to us for leadership, not factional warfare,” she said.
She further warned against attempts by leaders to dictate public participation in political events.
“We cannot purport to decide for the people which political rallies they may attend and which they may not. To do so is a direct affront to the very definition of democracy,” she said.
Calling for restraint, Odinga urged all stakeholders to prioritize unity and respect for democratic rights.
“The success of ODM will not be found in our factions, but in our shared commitment to the people,” she said.
“Let us welcome all voices and trust the people of Kisumu to exercise their own democratic wisdom as we are all enjoined by the Constitution to respect the right to freedom of association, expression and movement.”
