Party members, leaders and supporters from across the country are trickling into the Port City of Mombasa for the 20th anniversary of the Orange Democratic Movement.
The hallmark of the celebration, dubbed ODM@20, will be tomorrow (Saturday) at the Mama Ngina Waterfront, where members will be reflecting on the late party leader Raila Odinga’s legacy and vision for Kenya’s future.
On Thursday, during the National Governing Council meeting, new ODM leaders were sworn in, led by Dr Oburu Oginga as the ODM Party Leader, followed by three Deputy Party Leaders: Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, Senator Godfrey Osostsi from Vihiga county and Paul Simba Arati.
Others were National Chairperson, Hon.Gladys Nyasuna Wanga (Homabay Governor), Ahmed Mohammed, National Organising Secretary, Ruth Odinga, Deputy Organising Secretary and Rose Akinyi Mbuyu as the Secretary for political affairs.
Prof Peter Anyang’ Nyongo’ handed over instruments of power to the new ODM party leader, Dr Oburu Oginga.
ODM Deputy Party Leader and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir lauded the party’s journey and called on members to remain steadfast in promoting justice, equality, and good governance.
“For two decades, ODM has stood as the pillar of Kenya’s democracy, a party that has never wavered in its fight for justice and equality,” Governor Nassir said.
“This celebration is not just about our past, but about our future. It is a call to every ODM member to recommit to the values that have defined our movement and service to the people, transparency, and unity, “Nassir added
He also paid tribute to the party’s founding leader, Raila Amolo Odinga, acknowledging his lifelong contribution to Kenya’s political transformation.
“We celebrate the vision and courage of our leader, Baba Raila Odinga, whose resilience built this movement. As we mark 20 years, we honour his legacy by ensuring that ODM remains the beacon of hope for millions of Kenyans,” he stated.
He urged members to strengthen the party at the grassroots, noting that ODM must play a central role in shaping Kenya’s next development chapter.
“Our duty now is to fortify our structures and ensure that ODM not only participates but leads in the next phase of Kenya’s democratic growth,” said Nassir.
Mombasa Women Representative Zam Zam Mohammed noted that as ODM celebrates 20 years, Kenyans should remember that democracy is about service to every Kenyan, regardless of tribe or status.
“I am proud to see leaders and citizens coming together in peace to honour a movement that has shaped our country’s democratic space,” she said.
– By Hadrine Joyce
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