EALA MP Winnie Odinga has expressed immense pride following her mother Ida Odinga’s recent nomination to a key leadership position at UNEP.
Speaking to Citizen TV’s Yvonne Okwaro, Winnie said, “I am extremely proud of her; the whole family is proud of her. She deserves it. She has stood on her own for the past 40 years, remained firm, loyal, and has fought for the rights of women in this country.” She added that her mother’s experience, education, and governance background make her well-qualified for the role. “I believe she has earned a position of respect within society, and I am confident she will do the right thing,” Winnie noted.
On rumors of family tensions, Winnie dismissed claims of a feud, particularly regarding her uncle Dr. Oburu Odinga. “There is no family feud. If there was, I doubt he would say it in public. Mambo ya nyumbani tunaongea kinyumbani, but mambo ya chama is not discussed at home. I love Dr. Oburu; he is my only dad, and our family is tight,” she said.
She also addressed internal issues within ODM, stressing the importance of respecting the party’s constitution. Winnie criticized leaders who misrepresent the party’s position and spoke against claims attributed to her late father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. “Either Baba told us or he did not. You cannot take words said in private and present them in public as if you know the full story,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to honoring her father’s legacy.
“ODM will not end. This is a party of 20 years; like a marriage, there will be fights, but you figure it out,” she stated.
She also urged the party to strengthen itself and focus on its members before entering coalitions, while commending Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna for representing Nairobi effectively.
On her personal work, Winnie highlighted her efforts as an EALA MP to promote technology, digital literacy, and online safety. She expressed her desire to return to local politics, stating, “When called upon, I serve the country. My heart always belongs in Kenya. If the people want me to be a local politician, that is what I will do.”
She concluded by acknowledging the support her family received from President Ruto following her father’s passing, emphasizing that respect and gratitude can exist alongside political differences.