President William Ruto has proudly reaffirmed his role as one of the founding members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), insisting he owes no apologies for his involvement in the party.
Speaking at the ODM founders’ dinner held at Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort in Mombasa on Saturday, November 15, 2025, Ruto emphasized his central role in the formation of the party. The event was part of the three-day celebrations marking ODM’s 20th anniversary.
“Number 1, I am a founding member of ODM, and I have no apologies to make to anybody. It is a historical fact. And I was not just a founder member. I was at the centre, at the heart of the formation of ODM,” Ruto said. He highlighted that his contributions were pivotal to the establishment and growth of the party over the years.
The dinner brought together ODM’s original members, offering a rare reunion to reflect on the legacy of the late Raila Odinga and the party’s journey since its inception in 2005. Ruto used the platform to share insights into the influences that shaped his political career, noting the role of former President Daniel arap Moi.
“One is former president Moi, because I first became a member of parliament in KANU. It was a difficult exercise then because I remember when I ran for the first time, I was not a favourite of KANU at that time, but I won anyway,” Ruto recalled, underlining how his early experiences in KANU shaped his leadership style and political strategies.
Observers viewed Ruto’s appearance at the founders’ dinner as both a gesture of respect for ODM’s history and a strong assertion of his significance in the party’s creation. His remarks reinforced his position as a key architect of the party and highlighted the historical importance of his political journey.
The event served as a platform for reflection, reconciliation, and recognition among ODM’s founding members, celebrating the party’s milestones and the vision that guided its formation.
