ODM Picks Oburu Oginga as New Party Leader, Unveils Memorial Plans for Raila
NAIROBI – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has moved to steady itself following the sudden passing of its charismatic leader, Raila Odinga, by appointing his elder brother, Hon. Dr. Oburu Oginga, as the new Party Leader.
The resolutions, passed during a meeting of the ODM Central Committee, outline a path forward for the party as it navigates the immense loss of its founding figure, whom it eulogized as the “People’s President.”
In a statement laden with emotion and resolve, the party expressed its “deep gratitude to the people and the Government of Kenya for the support, outpouring of love and solidarity” shown to the Odinga family.
A New Captain for the Ship
To guide the party through this “difficult time,” the Central Committee unanimously endorsed Hon. Dr. Oburu Oginga as the new Party Leader. The party’s rank and file were urged to accord him “all the necessary support and cooperation.” This move is seen as a measure to ensure continuity and stability within the party’s leadership structure.
Honouring a Unifier’s Legacy
The party vowed to remain on the path charted by its departed leader, describing him as a “unifier who brought together people of all shades of views.” In his honour, ODM committed to “continue the struggle for equality, justice, and peace here at home and beyond our borders.”
To allow the millions of Kenyans touched by Raila’s life to pay their respects, the party announced a series of memorial services across the country. The services are scheduled for:
· Magarini in Kilifi County: 2nd and 3rd
· Homabay and Migori: 5th and 6th
In a poignant tribute, the party expressed a belief that given Raila’s profound love for ODM, he “has joined the nearest branch of ODM in heaven.” In response, the party pledged to honour him on earth by “strengthening existing branches and creating new ones to allow as many of his supporters as possible stay closely with him via the party.”
Party Activities to Proceed
As part of this consolidation effort, the party confirmed that the ODM@20 celebrations will proceed as scheduled on the 14th, 15th, and 16th. The festivities will be accompanied by activities “aimed at cementing the unity and solidarity within the party.” All preparatory committees have been directed to continue with their work.
The party extended its condolences once more to the Odinga family, Raila’s friends globally, and the people of Kenya. It appealed to all members and Kenyans to “focus on celebrating the gift of his life” in a dignified manner befitting his legacy and sacrifices.
The top leadership pledged to “pursue all causes he dedicated his life to” and uphold party unity. Crucially, the party reiterated its commitment to the current broad-based government until 2027, a relationship it stated is “guided by the ten-point agenda entered into for the sake of peace and stability of the Country.”
The statement was signed off with a final farewell: “Rest in peace, Party Leader, People’s President and Comrade, Rt. Hon Raila Amolo Odinga, C.G.H.”
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