Party vows to honour Odinga’s vision through unity, grassroots revival, and continued pursuit of justice
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Central Committee has confirmed Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga as the acting party leader following the death of Raila Amolo Odinga, pledging to preserve his vision of unity, democracy, and justice.
In a statement issued after a meeting in Nairobi, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna said the committee had agreed on key resolutions to guide the movement through the transition period and to uphold the values championed by its late leader.
The party expressed deep gratitude to President William Ruto, the Cabinet, and millions of Kenyans for the support extended to the Odinga family and ODM during the mourning period. Sifuna said the government’s facilitation of the state funeral was conducted with dignity befitting a leader of Raila Odinga’s stature.
Read: Raila Odinga Dies in India After Cardiac Arrest
The committee endorsed Dr. Oburu Oginga as the acting party leader and urged all members to rally behind him as he guides the movement through this critical moment in its history. ODM also announced a series of national memorial services to honour Raila’s life and legacy, beginning in Magarini, Kilifi County, on November 2 and 3, followed by events in Homa Bay and Migori counties on November 5 and 6.
“The Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga built this movement on the foundation of democracy, equity, inclusion, and truth. ODM is not just a political party; it is a covenant we must now renew,” read part of the statement.
The party confirmed that the postponed ODM@20 anniversary celebrations will proceed between November 14 and 16, featuring activities aimed at strengthening internal unity and revitalizing branches across the country. ODM also reaffirmed its commitment to the broad-based government agreement signed before Raila’s passing, which runs until 2027 under a ten-point agenda focused on peace, stability, and inclusive development.
In honour of Raila’s legacy, ODM said it would expand grassroots structures nationwide, ensuring that his dream of a just and democratic Kenya remains alive. The statement added that “since Baba loved ODM so dearly, we believe he has joined the nearest branch of ODM in heaven, and we shall honour him by strengthening the ones he left behind here on earth.”
Read: Is Edwin Sifuna About to Ditch ODM? Speculation Grows Ahead of 2027 Elections
Sifuna called on members and supporters to remain united, disciplined, and focused on continuing Raila’s mission. “We will pursue all the causes he dedicated his life to, uphold the unity of the party, and apply the lessons learned from our departed leader in service to the nation,” he said.
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s long-serving opposition figure and former Prime Minister, died earlier this month. His death marked the end of an era in Kenyan politics, but ODM leaders say his vision of a free, fair, and united Kenya will continue to guide the movement.
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