Ruth Odinga Declares She Is Ready to Run for Presidency in 2027

Ruth Adhiambo Odinga has set the political scene ablaze after declaring that nothing will stop her from contesting for the presidency in the 2027 General Election.

The Kisumu Women Representative made the bold statement on her official Facebook page, writing, “Nothing stops me from contesting for presidency in 2027.”

Her post quickly went viral, drawing hundreds of reactions and sparking conversations across the political spectrum. The declaration came only a few days after President William Ruto said that the only person he could have contested with is Raila Amolo Odinga, Ruth’s late brother and one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.

Ruth’s post has reignited national debate on the Odinga family’s political future and whether the legacy of the late Raila Odinga could soon find new expression through her.

Ruth Odinga addresses supporters as she reiterates her intention to run for the presidency in 2027.

From Kisumu to the National Stage

Ruth Odinga is no stranger to politics or leadership. As the daughter of Kenya’s first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and the younger sister of the late Raila Odinga, she has spent her life surrounded by public service and national politics.

She has shared that she was raised at the Kisumu State House and grew up alongside Uhuru Kenyatta, Kenya’s fourth president, a friendship that continues to this day.

Education and Professional Experience

Ruth began her education at Xaveria Primary School in Kisumu before joining Kenya High School and later Mutare Girls High School in Zimbabwe. She later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science and a Post Graduate Certificate in Development Studies from the University of Oslo in Norway.

Before entering politics, she built a successful career in both business and development work. She served as Managing Director of Petro Plus Africa and later as Chief Executive Officer of Spectre International Limited, a family-owned energy firm.

Her international experience includes working in London as a development officer and teaching geography in The Gambia.

Political Journey

Ruth Odinga ventured into elective politics in 2013 when she contested the Kisumu gubernatorial seat under the Orange Democratic Movement. Although she did not win, she was appointed Deputy Governor of Kisumu County, serving from 2013 to 2017.

In that role, she became known for her dedication to community development and her tireless efforts in youth and women empowerment. Between 2017 and 2022, she served as Senior Adviser to the Governor and Director of Special Programmes and Disaster Management.

In 2022, Ruth was elected as the Women Representative for Kisumu County, continuing her advocacy for education, gender equality, and economic growth.

She also chairs the Kenya Network of Women Governors and has received national recognition as a Gender Champion for her efforts to promote women in leadership.

Ruth Odinga alongside her late brother Raila Odinga, highlighting the Odinga family’s enduring presence in Kenyan politics.

Ruth Odinga’s Vision for Kenya

Ruth has consistently called for leadership that delivers results and prioritizes people’s needs over political gamesmanship. She has launched several empowerment initiatives focused on training youth through TVET programs, supporting small-scale traders, and establishing centers for victims of gender-based violence.

Her declaration for 2027 appears to be an extension of this vision, one that seeks to elevate service, integrity, and inclusivity to the highest level of governance.

A New Chapter in the Odinga Legacy

Ruth Odinga’s public statement has already stirred anticipation across the political landscape. Many observers believe her announcement could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Odinga legacy.

Her political experience, combined with her strong family background and grassroots influence, positions her as one of the most closely watched figures ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Whether she officially launches her campaign or not, her words have already placed her in the national spotlight and opened a fresh conversation about Kenya’s next generation of leadership.

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