In a decisive move to steady the ship following the death of its iconic founder Raila Odinga, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally rallied behind Dr. Oburu Odinga as its new acting leader, with key party figures emphatically endorsing him to ensure continuity and stability.
The endorsement, cemented at a meeting of delegates from the ODM stronghold counties of Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay, signals a unified front as the party navigates a delicate leadership transition.
Oburu, the elder brother of the late Raila, was recently appointed as the acting party leader by the ODM National Executive Council (NEC).
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, voicing the collective support of the region, left no room for ambiguity. “In light of recent developments and the appointment of Oburu as the Acting Party Leader by the ODM National Executive Council, we unequivocally endorse him for the position,” Wanga declared. “We stand united in our unwavering support for him as we decisively advance the party’s agenda.”
The appointment of Oburu is widely seen as a move to provide experienced leadership as the party, one of Kenya’s most influential political movements for nearly two decades, charts its future course.
A “National Party,” Not a “Luo Party”
Amid the consolidation of support in its Nyanza base, senior party leaders were quick to assert ODM’s national character. Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ described the party as a “complex organism” with roots and representation across Kenya.
“He assured members that Oburu had the capabilities to steer the party,” a source stated, with Senator Kajwang’ insisting that ODM must retain its national outlook. “ODM, he said, is not a Luo party but a national party.”
This sentiment was echoed in the confidence placed in Oburu’s leadership. “I have confidence that Oburu Odinga has the temperament, wisdom, and maturity to lead all members of ODM, be they from the Coast, Western, or Nairobi,” Kajwang’ stated.
Dismissing the “Generation” Debate
As he steps into the spotlight, Oburu Oginga has directly addressed murmurs that his advanced age signals a party out of touch with the nation’s youth.
The senator firmly dismissed claims that ODM is dominated by older politicians, arguing that the party is a vibrant mix of experience and young energy.
“Some people are saying that Oburu is aged and is making ODM party to seem like it is for the older people. We have young leaders in the party like Abdulswamad and Wanga; are they young or not?” Oburu countered during a speech on Sunday.
He pointed to the rising generation of leaders already shaping the party’s future at both county and national levels, specifically highlighting Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and Homa Bay’s Gladys Wanga as exemplars of this youthful leadership.
In a bold rebranding effort, Oburu framed ODM as the natural home for Kenya’s young and ambitious. “ODM is a Gen-Z party, like Oburu Oginga, like me. It is a party of all the youths. I urge them to come and join our ODM party,” he said, extending an open invitation.
He urged young people to bring their new ideas and energy into the fold, maintaining that the party remains committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders within its structures and in elective politics.
With a solidified leadership and a clear message of unity and generational inclusion, the new-look ODM under Oburu Odinga is making its first strategic moves to secure its legacy and relevance in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
