Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has publicly clashed with Ruth Odinga in the latest sign of growing tensions within Orange Democratic Movement over the party’s leadership direction.
Speaking during an ODM gathering, Mbadi appeared to rebuke Ruth Odinga, insisting that members must respect the current party hierarchy led by Oburu Odinga. In a strongly worded statement, Mbadi said: “Ruth Odinga, you must know Oburu is the party leader; And because your brother is party leader doesnt give you freedom to do anything you want. Mambo ya kubembelezana tutaharibu chama cha ODM.”
The remarks, loosely translated as a warning against excessive lobbying or favoritism, suggest simmering disagreements over how the party should be managed following recent leadership changes. Mbadi’s statement signals a push for discipline and unity behind Oburu, who has taken over leadership responsibilities in the party.
Ruth Odinga, a senior ODM figure from influential Odinga family in the Nyanza region, has historically played a key role in party affairs. Her political stature and close ties to the Oginga family make any disagreement involving her highly significant within ODM circles.
The exchange is likely to spark fresh debate within the party over succession politics, internal democracy, and the balance of power among longtime ODM loyalists. Political observers say such public disagreements could test the party’s unity ahead of future electoral contests.
Mbadi, once ODM chairman before joining Ruto’s government, remains one of the party’s most recognizable strategists despite serving in the broad-based administration. His intervention could trigger more internal politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With senior leaders now openly addressing one another in public, attention will turn to whether ODM can contain the growing friction and present a united front under Oburu’s leadership or whether, Edwin Sifuna’s wing will run away with fame and stage an independent force against the establishment.