Winnie Odinga: I’ll seek advice from Ruto and Uhuru as I chart political path

Nairobi, Kenya – As she ponders her political future, EALA MP Winnie Odinga has made clear that her path will not be dictated solely by her family name, emphasizing her commitment to representing the interests of her constituents above all else. The daughter of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga acknowledges the political legacy she has inherited but insists that any future decision must be driven by the demands and grievances of the people she seeks to serve.

"While I appreciate what my father built, I cannot disregard the will of the people I intend to represent. They still harbor anger and frustrations," she stated, stressing that her political path should be guided by the people's desires rather than the expectations of the Odinga clan. Winnie expressed readiness to pursue her convictions independently if she were faced with a choice between political convenience and her personal beliefs, insisting that she would choose the latter.

"If the time comes and I have to decide between the comfort of convenience or what I stand for or believe in, I will always choose the latter. If that means walking alone, then I will," she declared. Her ambition to forge an independent political identity is evident as she seeks to distance herself from the political rivalries and feuds linked to her father's career, stating that she is not interested in inheriting his enemies but rather his supporters.

"I don’t have beef with anybody or trying to inherit enemies, but I am trying to inherit my father’s friends," she added. Speaking amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election, Winnie highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the opposition's political direction and the future of the Azimio party. She noted that while her father remains the party leader, his reduced involvement in front-row politics leaves questions about his level of involvement in her political journey.

Despite this, she said she would seek her father's counsel, adding that she would also consider seeking advice from President William Ruto. "I will definitely meet him for guidance and advice. If he will be happy to meet me, I’d love to sit with him. I’d love to sit with President Ruto for advice. I am not antagonistic or a starting-with-war person," she emphasized.

Winnie's approach to her potential political career appears to be one of consultation and engagement, rather than confrontation, as she weighs her next move. Her remarks suggest that the decision on whether to enter politics will be framed not merely as a matter of family succession but as a choice between political inheritance and what she believes her constituents want.