President William Ruto was among the founding members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) honoured during a colourful Founders Dinner in Mombasa on Saturday night, marking two decades of the party’s political journey.
The awards were presented in four tiers; platinum, gold, silver, and founder-member certificates to recognise individuals whose contributions shaped ODM from its early, turbulent years to its present stature.
Organizers emphasized that selection was based not solely on financial contribution, but also on ideas, sacrifice, and years of unwavering commitment.
“We have platinum, gold, silver, and certificates,” the organizers said.
“The ODM party is very diverse, and awardees cover all sectors of society. Some contributed ideas, others time. Many dedicated their youth to ODM. These considerations were made across all cadres and demographics.”
In the platinum category, Royal Media Services chairman S.K. Macharia and the late former Gem MP Jakoyo Midiwo were honoured for their significant influence and support during the party’s formative years.
Gold awards went to Senator Crystal Asige and Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga for their ongoing role in advancing ODM’s agenda.
The silver tier recognised Bernard Kadundo, Caroline Kalume, Brian Matengo, and Frederick Kobilo for steady but impactful contributions over the years.
Founder-member certificates were awarded to several high-profile figures involved in ODM’s earliest organisational efforts, including former Cabinet Minister Henry Kosgey, EAC Cabinet Secretary Beatrice Askul, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, ODM party leader Oburu Odinga, and President Ruto.
Ruto’s inclusion drew attention due to his later political divergence from ODM, but organizers stressed that the awards reflected historical contributions rather than current affiliations.
During his speech, Ruto struck a conciliatory and reflective tone, acknowledging his role in ODM’s formation and urging political maturity.
“History cannot be rewritten, and Kenyans should move beyond divisive politics of the past,” he said.
He added that democracy is strengthened when competition does not become permanent enmity, and he stressed the importance of prioritising national unity and development.
Ruto reiterated his loyalty to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) while pledging continued support for the broad-based government.
He symbolically wore a yellow Kaunda suit representing UDA and an orange hat for ODM, explaining the choice humorously.
“Earlier today, I was in Kitui, and I knew that when I come for this ODM meeting, Simba Arati will start telling me to join ODM because he is used to saying it,” Ruto said amid laughter.
“I knew the UDA members would think I had left them, so I wore yellow. But I had to mix with orange so they could see I am still broad-based.”
The Founders Dinner not only honoured ODM’s
historical contributors but also reinforced the importance of political
tolerance, unity, and recognition of past efforts, even among leaders who have
taken divergent political paths.
