ODM endorses Oburu Oginga as acting party leader

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) named Oburu Oginga as its acting party leader following the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga.

This marked the beginning of a new chapter for Kenya’s most influential opposition movement.

In a statement read by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna after a meeting of the ODM Central Committee, the party paid glowing tribute to Raila Odinga, describing him as “a peacemaker and a bridge-builder par excellence” whose fingerprints were on every major milestone in Kenya’s democratic journey over the past four decades.

“No one will be able to fill the massive shoes left by Raila, but together, the unity of purpose will be a key cog towards navigating the next 15 months,” the statement read.

The committee urged ODM members across the country to rally around Raila’s dream and maintain party unity amid the leadership transition. The party emphasized that its foundation—built on democracy, equity, inclusion, and truth—would continue to guide its course.

Raila’s true inheritance is not a name or a position, but a mission—to continue the struggle for a Kenya that works for all its children, regardless of tribe, class or creed,” the statement said.

Unity and Continuity

The ODM leadership appealed to members to resist internal wrangles and the temptation to “fight over his political inheritance,” noting that Raila’s vision for a just and inclusive Kenya must remain at the heart of the movement.

The Central Committee also called on the media to avoid sensationalism and instead highlight the party’s ongoing efforts to preserve unity and focus on development.

“Please help us sustain this momentum by not perpetually hyping perceived divisions,” the party said, stressing that ideological diversity within ODM was a sign of strength, not weakness.

Upcoming Memorials and Events

In honour of Raila’s life and legacy, ODM announced a series of national memorial services beginning in Kilifi County on November 2 and 3, followed by events in Homa Bay and Migori on November 5 and 6 respectively.

The party also confirmed that its long-planned ODM at 20 celebrations will proceed from November 14 to 16 in Mombasa County, featuring activities aimed at cementing unity and solidarity among members.

Political Funding Appeal

The statement renewed ODM’s call for the national government to release billions of shillings owed to the party under the Political Parties Fund, a cause Raila Odinga had championed for decades.

“The best way for the national government to honour the late Raila Odinga is to release the money owed to the party so that our programmes can run and his legacy can remain secure,” ODM said.

Commitment to the Broad-Based Government

Reaffirming its cooperation with the current administration, ODM said it remains committed to the broad-based government arrangement agreed upon before 2027, guided by a 10-point agenda for peace and stability.

The party concluded its statement with a solemn tribute to its departed leader:

“Rest in peace, Baba. Rest in peace, our party leader. Rest in peace, the people’s president and comrade, the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga.”