Health CS Aden Duale pictured in an ODM campaign poster from his earlier political days [ADEN DUALE/X]Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has offered a reflective tribute on the 20th anniversary of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), tracing his personal and political journey alongside the evolution of one of Kenya’s most influential political parties.
In a statement posted on Friday, Duale reminisced about his early days in politics, intertwined with the founding and growth of ODM.
“When ODM opened its doors twenty years ago, we, including H.E. President William Ruto, were among the founders and ranking members who believed that Kenya deserved a wider democratic horizon and a louder, freer voice,” he said.
He described the party as more than just a political vehicle, but as a platform through which he first entered Parliament in 2007, representing the people of Dujis Constituency.
Over the past two decades, Kenya’s political landscape has shifted, alliances have realigned, and paths have diverged, he said.
The CS added he proudly serves under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), but stresses that his guiding principle has remained constant: democracy.
“The D—Democracy—is the thread that has stitched together every chapter of my public life,” he noted, highlighting the enduring importance of protecting democratic freedoms.
Duale paid tribute to the late Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as the embodiment of Kenya’s democratic struggle.
He recalled Raila’s long journey through sacrifice, battles, and resilience, carrying the weight of the nation at critical moments and insisting that no Kenyan should fear their own voice.
“Even when we disagreed, even when the country wavered, he did not. He stood, sometimes alone, sometimes wounded, but always firm in the belief that Kenya must never shrink its freedoms,” he stated.
According to Duale, the former prime minister's enduring gift is the protection of democratic space, a responsibility all Kenyans now share.
While reflecting on ODM’s history, Duale acknowledged the role the party played in shaping leaders and nurturing political courage.
“I join them in celebration, not as a mere member, but as a grateful beneficiary of its history, its courage and its vision,” he said.
He also highlighted the contributions of President William Ruto, noting that UDA builds on the value of democracy by adding an emphasis on delivery, ensuring that the freedoms guaranteed by democracy are matched by tangible services to the people.
Notably, Duale’s message also drew a symbolic parallel between the colours that have guided his political journey.
"In the grand canvas of our politics, colours often tell stories. Orange shaped my early steps, and Yellow guides my work today. And truly, these colours are not opposites. They carry the same hope, just in different shades. Yellow might be the future we saw in Orange!” he said.
This metaphor captures a personal evolution from the ODM party, represented by Orange, to UDA, largely associated with Yellow.
“Happy 20th Anniversary to the Orange Democratic Movement; two decades of struggle, sacrifice and steadfast belief in our democracy!” he concluded.
