SIAYA, Kenya – October 24, 2025 – In a significant political development, delegates from Kenya’s Nyanza region have unanimously endorsed Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga as the new leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The endorsement took place on Thursday at Dr. Oginga’s residence in Bondo, solidifying his position at the helm of the party following the death of his younger brother, Raila Odinga. The former party leader and veteran opposition figure passed away on October 15 from cardiac arrest while receiving treatment in India.
This move by the regional delegates is aimed at preserving the stability and legacy of the ODM party during a period of national mourning. It follows an earlier decision by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to appoint Dr. Oginga as the acting leader.
The sentiment was captured by Alego-Usonga Member of Parliament, Hon. Sam Atandi, who posted on X: “This afternoon @TheODMparty delegates from across the 4 Nyanza counties have unanimously endorsed Sen Dr Oburu Oginga as the new ODM party Leader.”
However, the swift endorsement has not been without controversy. Critics on social media and political observers have immediately questioned the legitimacy of the process. They point to the ODM party constitution, which stipulates that a leadership election must be conducted through a National Delegates Conference (NDC), not a regional gathering.
This has sparked a debate about the party’s internal democracy and its national appeal beyond its traditional stronghold, raising questions about the future steps the party will take to formalize its leadership in accordance with its own rules.
As the story develops, all eyes will be on the ODM party to see if it will convene a National Delegates Conference to ratify the endorsement and unite its base across the country.
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