"President Ruto Was There For Baba" Winnie Odinga Defends Ruto Over Uprising Criticism

Winnie Odinga has publicly praised President William Ruto for what she described as rare and meaningful support to her family following the death of her father, veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga.

Speaking during a recent engagement, Winnie said President Ruto has been the only senior national leader who consistently checked on the family and ensured they were taken care of after the loss, a gesture she termed compassionate and deeply personal.

“Since my father passed on, the only senior leadership that has come to check up and take care of our family has been President Ruto,” Winnie said, highlighting what she framed as leadership that goes beyond political rivalry.

Her remarks have quickly stirred political debate, given the long-standing rivalry between President Ruto and the Odinga family, which has defined Kenyan politics for decades. Analysts say the statement signals a possible softening of political lines, especially as the country edges closer to the 2027 General Election.

Supporters of the president have seized on the remarks as evidence of Ruto’s inclusive leadership style, while critics view them as politically symbolic in a highly charged environment.

The comments add to a growing list of public acknowledgements from figures associated with the opposition, pointing to shifting alliances and a changing political landscape in Kenya.