President William Ruto has urged the safeguarding of political parties with a national focus, arguing that they are the cornerstone of democracy in the country.
Ruto made the remarks on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at a Mombasa hotel during the 20th anniversary of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, stressing that parties like ODM should be used to promote an ideology-based politics rather than one based on ethnicity or division.
The Head of State, a surviving ODM founding member, called on the party membership to stay united and resolute to pay tribute to the memory of their late leader, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The role of political parties in a democratic system
We are marking 20 years of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) while also paying tribute to the late Honourable Raila Odinga and his enduring legacy. Ruto stated that Baba’s lasting, robust, and solid legacy continues to influence our political landscape.
“The powerful spirit of ODM must be allowed to thrive, ensuring the party remains united and robust, and safeguarding against its potential fragmentation.” He added that ODM should continue to motivate us to establish and support robust, progressive national political parties that are the foundation of our democracy, promoting politics based on ideology rather than ethnicity or division.
Ruto’s appeal for unity within ODM occurs at a time when divisions and schisms within the party are becoming increasingly apparent. Cabinet Secretary for Mining and the Blue Economy, Ali Hassan Joho, has cautioned that those who have engaged in battles with Raila Odinga will not remain inactive while others conspire to oust them from ODM.
Disparities within Original Design Manufacturers.
During the ODM@20 celebrations on Saturday, November 15, 2025, the former Mombasa Governor claimed that unidentified party members were trying to expel others from the party, and stated that such actions would be met with equal countermeasures.
Does she give you food or punishment. Tell our fellow countrymen that our blood is fire. When you welcome visitors, you welcome yourselves. He spoke in Swahili. He said in Swahili.
Following Raila Odinga’s younger daughter Winnie Odinga’s criticism, Joho’s warning has been issued, cautioning against ODM leaders who are attempting to dissolve the party, emphasizing the need for ODM to remain strong and unified.
We must strongly defend this party. I want to inform those individuals that you cannot abandon us or expel us from the party. He cautioned that some individuals are able to mount a resistance.
