Kisumu Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga. Photo: the-star.co.ke
Ardent supporters of the Kenyattas and Odingas have always differed on political matters and governance.
However, the situation is quite different when it comes to how members of the two families relate on a personal level.
Raila Odinga’s younger sister, Ruth Odinga, the current Kisumu County deputy governor in a candid interview with the Standard spoke about her relationship with President Uhuru Kenyatta since they were kids.
Ruth describes Uhuru as a close friend, despite the sharp political differences they have.
The deputy governor recalls how she used to play with the President back in the day, when Uhuru’s dad, Jomo Kenyatta, visited Kisumu.
“When they came to Kisumu with their father, we used to play together. Uhuru is a good friend of mine, a very personal friend. It’s only our political paths that were different,” she said in the interview.
Ruth says politics played a huge role in her knowing Uhuru when they were young.
“I was born into a political family and politics is what we have grown up in. I met Uhuru through politics. If my father was not in politics, I would not have known Uhuru.”
Ruth Odinga with his older brother, Raila Odinga during a recent political rally. Photo/The Star
The ODM politician recalls their high school days, saying she even knows Uhuru’s college sweethearts.“I was in Kenya High while the President was at St Mary’s. We were friends, I even know his college sweethearts,” Ruth said.
Ruth revealed how at some point they suffered when her father, Jaramogi Odinga and Jomo Kenyatta fell apart.
“When my father was under house arrest and I was then a pupil at Victoria Primary School in Kisumu, I used to be taken to Central Police Station for inspection, where I was forced to undress before being inspected, then I would be asked to dress again after which I would get clearance to go to school,” she narrated.
She added, “I was hawking mangoes to get money for ice cream when my father was in detention.”
Raila Odinga with President Uhuru Kenyatta holding a discussion. Photo/Courtesy.
Currently, the political difference between Raila and Uhuru is seen as the fiercest.
The two faced off in the 2013 presidential election, with Uhuru emerging the winner.
His victory was unsuccessfully challenged in the Supreme Court by Raila.
The two are likely to face off again come August 8.