Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga on Friday attended the burial of Mayienga FM presenter Festus Amimo in Awasi, Kisumu County, where she paid tribute to the late journalist and spoke about the future direction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
In a statement shared on X after the funeral, Odinga described Amimo as a respected media professional whose work had a significant impact on local broadcasting.
She said the presenter, who hosted the popular programme Gari Mokinyi on Mayienga FM, played an important role in linking political leaders and the media.
Odinga noted that beyond his on-air presence, Amimo had a personal connection to her political career.
According to her statement, he supported her work from its early stages and frequently facilitated engagement between her office and journalists in the region.
She also reflected on their last interactions while she was in India with ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Odinga said Amimo regularly checked in on the family during that period and that they spoke on the night before the family suffered a bereavement.
She added that Amimo later conducted her first media interview following the loss.
The Woman Representative described 2025 as a challenging year marked by several losses, saying the experience had been difficult for many Kenyans.
She urged resilience, noting that those still alive had a responsibility to continue with their work despite personal and collective hardships.
During her remarks, Odinga addressed internal party matters, reiterating ODM’s identity as a movement rather than a conventional political party.
She emphasised unity as a key requirement for advancing the party’s political objectives, particularly as Kenya continues to navigate coalition politics.
“Unity is our only currency for negotiation,” Odinga said in her statement, adding that ODM would seek broader representation in government.
She said the party was not satisfied with limited Cabinet representation and would push for increased inclusion in senior government positions.
Odinga also announced plans for ODM leaders to engage supporters across the country after the festive season, with the aim of strengthening party structures and consolidating support ahead of future political engagements.
Festus Amimo was laid to rest at his home in Awasi, with family members, journalists, local leaders, and residents attending the ceremony.
Odinga concluded her tribute by remembering him as a committed professional whose contribution to community radio and public discourse would be remembered in Kisumu County and beyond.