- Ida Odinga has been nominated as Kenya’s envoy to UNEP
- Senator Samson Cherargei links the move to the broad-based government
- The lawmaker says the nomination strengthens ODM ahead of 2027
- The government cites Ida’s long record in public service
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has welcomed the nomination of Ida Odinga as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), describing it as a clear outcome of the current power-sharing arrangement in government.
Reacting online shortly after the announcement, the senator congratulated Ida Odinga and praised the Head of State for the decision.
Cherargei wished Ida well as she prepares to take up the international role, saying he believes she will serve the country with dedication.
He described the nomination as recognition of her long-standing contribution to national and public causes, adding that the role places Kenya in a strong position on the global environmental stage.
The senator linked the appointment to cooperation between President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
According to Cherargei, the working relationship between the two sides will help stabilise ODM as the country moves closer to the 2027 General Election.
The nomination was formally announced by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, who said the decision reflects Ida Odinga’s lifelong service to the nation.
Koskei noted that the President exercised his constitutional authority in forwarding her name for the UNEP role.
In the statement, the government pointed to Ida Odinga’s history of standing up for justice, supporting education, promoting gender equality, and defending democratic values.
These efforts, the statement said, make her well-suited to represent Kenya at UNEP.
The nomination has now been sent to the National Assembly, where it will undergo review and approval in line with the Constitution.
If approved, Ida Odinga is expected to boost Kenya’s voice in global environmental discussions and strengthen the country’s role as host of UNEP.
The appointment marks another major political signal under the broad-based government arrangement, as leaders from different political sides continue to share space in national leadership.
