Delegates of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) from Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay counties on Friday officially endorsed Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga to succeed the late Raila Odinga as the party leader.
The endorsement, announced during a meeting in Homa Bay, solidifies the growing regional backing for Oburu—elder brother to the late ODM founder—as he steps in to lead the party during a sensitive transition period.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who addressed the gathering, said the move followed the National Executive Council’s (NEC) recent decision to appoint Oburu as acting party leader.
“In view of the recent developments and the NEC’s appointment of Oburu as Acting Party Leader, we fully endorse him for the role. We are united in our firm support for him as we continue advancing the party’s mission,” Wanga said.
Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ emphasized the importance of unity within the party, describing ODM as a “complex organism” with deep roots and representation across the country. He stressed that the party must preserve its national identity even as it consolidates support in Nyanza.
“ODM is not a Luo party; it is a national movement,” he said, expressing confidence in Oburu’s ability to lead effectively.
“I believe Oburu Odinga possesses the temperament, wisdom, and experience needed to lead all ODM members—whether from the Coast, Western, or Nairobi,” Kajwang’ added. “May God guide you as you lead not just this community, but the entire nation.”
This show of solidarity comes just a week after the NEC convened and unanimously appointed Oburu as Acting Party Leader, with the decision taking effect immediately.
Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15 in India after suffering cardiac arrest, was laid to rest last Sunday at his family home in Bondo, Siaya County.
“The National Executive Council (NEC) met this morning and unanimously endorsed Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga as the Acting Party Leader. This appointment takes effect immediately,” the party announced on October 16, a day after Raila’s death.
Oburu’s appointment is expected to provide continuity in leadership as ODM charts its next political direction.
The NEC’s decision represents the party’s first major internal step since the loss of its founding leader, whose political career spanned more than four decades.
For nearly 20 years, ODM has remained one of Kenya’s most influential political parties, shaping the nation’s opposition politics and playing a defining role in the country’s democratic journey.
