Suba North legislator and Minority Whip Millie Mabona Odhiambo has never shied away from controversy.
The self-described “bad girl” has built her political career on speaking her mind, questioning convention and refusing to be limited by expectations.
Behind her bold public image is a story of perseverance, resilience and political achievement that continues to inspire a new generation of women leaders.
Nominated Senator Essy Okenyuri is among those inspired by Odhiambo’s journey, and she recently met the veteran legislator to discuss leadership, politics and the realities of public service.
“The Minority Whip, or as she fondly calls herself, the ‘bad girl’, is a force to reckon with,” Okenyuri said.
“She often says that good girls never get the corner office. Whether that claim is debatable is another matter, but her journey stands as proof that boldness, determination and an unapologetic commitment to one’s convictions can take a person to the highest levels.”
For Okenyuri, the meeting was more than a courtesy call. It was a chance to learn from a woman whose political path reflects parts of her own.
Like Okenyuri, Odhiambo first entered Parliament through nomination, joining the House in 2007 before the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
Rather than remaining in that role, she successfully moved into elective politics, winning the then Mbita parliamentary seat before going on to represent Suba North.
Since entering elective politics in 2013, Odhiambo has never lost an election, a record that has strengthened her place among Kenya’s most successful female politicians.
“Her story resonates deeply with me because she too began her parliamentary journey as a nominated member before transitioning into elective politics,” Okenyuri said.
“Through consistency and hard work, she won the confidence of her constituents and has continued to earn their trust over successive terms.”
Their discussion also focused on Odhiambo’s book, Rig or Be Rigged?, a candid reflection on the realities of Kenyan politics.
In the book, she examines the often harsh and complex world of political competition, arguing that success demands resilience, strategy and a clear understanding of the written and unwritten rules that shape the political arena.
To conclude the meeting, Odhiambo gave Okenyuri a copy of the book.
“I consider it more than just a book,” Okenyuri said.
“It is a practical guide to the realities of Kenyan politics, offering valuable insights into the unwritten rules of the political arena. It underscores the importance of resilience, perseverance and the delicate balance between ethical principles and the often harsh realities of political life.”
For Okenyuri, the encounter reinforced the value of learning from those who have successfully navigated the turbulent waters of public leadership.
There are suggestions that she is building a strong base for the Kisii Woman Representative seat in the next General Elections.
“It was truly an honour to learn from one of Kenya’s most accomplished legislators, a decorated parliamentarian, a trailblazer and a woman whose story continues to inspire generations of leaders,” she said.