The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally endorsed Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga as its acting party leader following the death of Raila Amolo Odinga earlier this month.
In a statement released after a Central Committee meeting held on October 27, 2025, the party expressed gratitude to Kenyans and the government for their outpouring of support and solidarity with the Odinga family.
“The party resolved to endorse Hon. Dr. Oburu Oginga as the acting party leader and urged all members to accord him the necessary support and cooperation to guide the party through this difficult time,” said ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
ODM extended condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, their children Rosemary, Junior, and Winnie, and the wider Odinga family. The party also acknowledged Dr. Oginga’s role during the mourning period and thanked President William Ruto, members of the Cabinet, and the public for their participation in giving Raila Odinga a dignified send-off.
“We are grateful for the state funeral process and the dignity with which the last rites of the late Rt. Hon. Odinga were conducted,” added Sifuna.
The statement noted that Odinga’s death came just as ODM was preparing to celebrate its 20th anniversary. The milestone will now serve as both a commemoration of his life and a reflection on his legacy. The main celebration is scheduled for mid-November in Mombasa, with related events planned in other counties.
Sifuna reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to the ideals upon which it was founded during the 2005 constitutional referendum — good governance, democracy, and the expansion of democratic space. He urged members to remain united, avoid internal divisions, and continue strengthening the movement nationwide.
ODM also called on the national government to release pending funds owed to political parties to support its operations and programs.
The party praised Raila Odinga’s lifelong role as a peacemaker and bridge-builder, describing him as a leader who consistently put the country’s interests before personal ambition. ODM pledged to uphold his mission of equity, inclusion, and democracy, describing the movement as “a covenant built on shared values rather than just a political organization.”
– By Timon Otieno
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