“He Told Me This Before He Left”: Mama Ida Breaks Silence on Raila’s True Stance on Ruto

Speaking in Suba North subcounty, Homa Bay County, on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, she declared her firm commitment to the broad-based government arrangement.

Her remarks came during the official launch of the Gembe Hills Participatory Management Plan, where she appeared alongside area Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo.

According to Mama Ida, Raila’s sudden passing left many of his loyal supporters confused about their political future and direction across the country.

To settle the growing uncertainty, she shared the specific private instructions her husband gave her before his death.

"For me, he left me in ODM. That is why there is where I still stand. He left me in broad-based. That is where I stand," she told the attentive gathering.

She further revealed that the veteran opposition leader explicitly recognized President William Ruto's authority as the head of state.

"He told me that President Ruto is the leader, that's where I stand and there is nowhere I am going," Mama Ida stated firmly.

The widow urged Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members and Raila’s nationwide base to remain steadfast and resist shifting their political allegiances.

"I know he left a lot of people. Where he left you is where you should stand. You don't move," she advised the crowd.

Her public declaration arrives at a critical moment for the Orange Democratic Movement as internal debates intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Party factions have recently divided over whether to maintain their cooperation with President Ruto’s administration or chart an independent opposition path.

Meanwhile, her comments have drawn swift reactions from political allies who insist Raila intended to support the administration's agenda for national stability.

By anchoring her stance on Raila’s personal wishes, Mama Ida has sent a clear signal to party leaders and grassroots supporters alike.

For the Odinga matriarch, honoring her late husband's enduring legacy means remaining within ODM while supporting the current broad-based administration today.

SOURCE