Ida Odinga distances herself from politics, says she is an industrialist
Ida Odinga, Kenya’s ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations Environment Programme, has clearly stated that she is stepping away from political matters in the country.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ conference on procurement and business in Mombasa on April 15, 2026, she explained that she has been focused on mourning her late husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. She said the period of mourning was very important to her, which is why she has not taken part in any political discussions or events that have been happening lately.
Mrs Odinga made it plain that she does not see herself as a politician. “Personally, I’m not a politician, and I hope you know that,” she told journalists at the event. She pointed out that her husband was deeply involved in politics, her daughter is active in the field, her brother-in-law is also engaged, and many people around her take part in political activities. However, she described herself differently, saying, “I am an industrialist and not a politician.” Her message was direct: she wants to be left out of the ongoing political conversations and disagreements.
Her remarks come at a time when there has been talk about succession and divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement party, which her late husband led for many years. Some people have tried to involve her name in these discussions, especially as her brother-in-law Oburu Oginga has taken on a bigger leadership role in the party, which now appears to have two separate groups. By speaking out, Mrs Odinga seems to be asking political leaders and the public to respect her choice to stay away from such matters and allow her to focus on her work and personal life.
Many observers see her statement as a sign of her desire to maintain a separate identity beyond the famous Odinga political family name. As Kenya’s representative to UNEP, she continues to serve in an important international role that deals with environmental issues rather than domestic politics. Her clear position may help reduce speculation about her future involvement in political affairs while she continues her professional duties and honours the memory of her late husband.
