Ida Odinga accepts Ruto's UNEP diplomatic role

By Newsflash Writer

Ida Odinga has confirmed that she has accepted her nomination as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) by President William Ruto, signaling her readiness to take up the international assignment despite mounting political debate at home.

Speaking on Sunday, January 25, during a church ceremony at PEFA Cathedral on Thika Road, where she was the guest of honour, the widow of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga said she views the appointment as both an honour and a call to serve. She dismissed efforts to pressure her into rejecting the role, saying her decision was firm.

Citing Psalm 23, she said her faith has remained her anchor through personal loss and public scrutiny. “I walk with my head high and speak with confidence because the Lord is with me,” she told the congregation, adding that she would not be intimidated by critics.

Criticism from political allies

Her acceptance has, however, exposed divisions within opposition ranks. A section of ODM leaders and figures allied to the United Opposition have publicly argued that the UNEP posting does not reflect her political stature or legacy.

ODM deputy party leader Godfrey Osotsi described the role as “too small,” urging her to reconsider. Democracy for Citizens Party deputy leader Cleophas Malala also faulted the nomination, saying national priorities should focus on improving livelihoods for ordinary Kenyans, particularly women, rather than high-profile diplomatic placements.

Despite the criticism, Ida Odinga has maintained that service to the country can take many forms, and that she is prepared to represent Kenya on the global environmental stage

ODM tensions

Even as some leaders objected, others rallied behind her decision. ODM youth leader Brian Omondi Midiwo, who attended the church event alongside Rosemary Odinga, said young party members fully support her acceptance of the role. He noted that her appointment reflects the growing inclusion of women in leadership and diplomacy. Roysambu MP Kamanda Mwafrika also termed her highly capable and well suited for the assignment.

Her move comes at a delicate moment for ODM, which is facing internal disagreements over leadership and its relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

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A faction of party leaders has called for a National Delegates Congress to elect substantive officials and address disputes within the party.

Siaya Governor James Orengo warned against attempts to oust Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, saying such actions could destabilize the party. He reiterated that Raila Odinga’s political position centered on addressing the cost of living and safeguarding citizens’ rights before any coalition considerations.

Other leaders, including Osotsi and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, insisted that ODM must remain guided by public consultation and the founding ideals of the party, even as its internal debates continue.