Millie Odhiambo draws line on violence ahead of rally
Millie Odhiambo
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has called for peace and restraint ahead of the Linda Mwananchi Rally, urging political actors and their supporters to protect lives and maintain calm.
Odhiambo said political competition should not be allowed to create divisions or fuel violence, stressing the importance of allowing Kenyans to exercise their democratic freedoms peacefully.
Her message comes as political activity intensifies, with rallies and public gatherings drawing increased attention from leaders and their supporters across the country.
The legislator urged those taking part in political activities to respect the rule of law and avoid actions or statements that could provoke confrontation.
She also warned against ethnicising politics, saying differences between political camps should not become a source of hostility among communities.
“As an ardent and excellent student of the Raila Amollo Odinga School of politics, whose values and principles mirror those enshrined in Article 10 of our Constitution and Chapter 4 on the Bill of Rights; and are also in the values of our party ODM, I fully support the freedom of speech and of association.”
Odhiambo’s appeal comes as attention turns to the Linda Mwananchi Rally, where political messages and the conduct of supporters are expected to be closely watched.
Odhiambo urges calm amid political mobilisation
The Suba North MP drew a distinction between exercising political freedoms and engaging in activities that could threaten peace.
“I condemn incitement to violence and actual violence. I do not condone the ethnicization of politics. I urge the respect for the rule of law.”
Her remarks underline the importance of restraint at a time when political gatherings can quickly attract large crowds and heightened emotions.
Odhiambo also framed her position around her Christian faith, saying her principles would not be sacrificed because of political pressure or the demands of the moment.
“Brand me whatever you want, but as a Christian, especially in our month of dedicated prayers as Adwen Sura gi Wes or SDA, I will not sell my birthright for a peace of meal.”
She urged Kenyans to pray for peace in Homa Bay County as political activity continues.
“Join me in praying that peace prevails in Homabay County tonight and tomorrow.”
The call comes as leaders and supporters prepare for the Linda Mwananchi Rally, with the political environment expected to remain highly charged.
Odhiambo’s message places peace at the centre of the political conversation, urging participants to express their views without resorting to violence or inflammatory rhetoric.
Political rallies remain an important part of Kenya’s democratic culture, providing leaders with platforms to address supporters and articulate their positions. However, such gatherings can also become flashpoints when political disagreements escalate.
Odhiambo’s intervention seeks to prevent that possibility by urging participants to exercise their rights responsibly.
Her appeal also echoes broader concerns over political violence and ethnic mobilisation, issues that have repeatedly shaped Kenya’s electoral and political history.
The legislator’s emphasis on constitutional values suggests that political participation should be guided by the same principles regardless of which side of the political divide one supports.
Meanwhile, Odhiambo has also spoken about her long-term political ambitions, telling Parliament that she intends to seek the presidency in 2032.
“You know that I will be the President in 2032. I leave the men to fight over now. That is their problem. But in 2032, I’m the President,” she said.
Her declaration came as several politicians position themselves for the 2027 presidential contest, including President William Ruto, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet secretary Fred Matiang’i and other opposition figures.
