ODM Announces Leadership Transition and Vows to Continue Raila Odinga’s Legacy
NAIROBI, Kenya – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has broken its official silence since the passing of its iconic leader, the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, with a somber yet resolute press statement outlining the party’s path forward. In a meeting of its Central Committee on October 27, 2025, the party conveyed its deepest condolences to the Odinga family and officially endorsed Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga as the new Acting Party Leader.
The statement, delivered by Secretary General Sen. Edwin Sifuna, began by expressing profound gratitude to President William Ruto, the government, and the millions of Kenyans and global leaders who offered support following Raila’s passing. The party acknowledged the state funeral as a befitting send-off for a “true global statesman.”
A Legacy to Uphold
Reflecting on Raila Odinga’s immense contribution, the party eulogized him as a “peacemaker and bridge-builder per excellence” who sacrificed personal ambition for national stability. It highlighted his consistent practice of extending an “olive branch” to election winners to prevent the country from descending into chaos.
“The struggle for good governance, greater freedoms and a wider democratic space is a lifelong undertaking,” the statement read, affirming that the ideals for which ODM was founded after the 2005 referendum remain unfulfilled. The party framed its continued existence as a moral duty to pursue these goals.
New Leader, Unified Mission
A key resolution from the meeting was the unanimous endorsement of Hon. Dr. Oburu Oginga as the new party leader. The party’s rank and file were urged to accord him full support to guide ODM through this difficult period.
Acknowledging that “no one will be able to fill the massive shoes left by Raila,” the Central Committee called for unity. It warned against internal factionalism and fighting over Raila’s “political inheritance,” stating that his true legacy is not a position but a mission.
“ODM is not just a political party; it is a covenant. A covenant that we, the living, must now renew,” Sifuna stated. He beseeched the media to avoid sensationalism and hyping perceived divisions, emphasizing that the committee had laid a “firm foundation of unity.”
Way Forward: Memorials, Celebrations, and By-Elections
The party announced a series of memorial services across the country to allow admirers to pay their respects. The venues and dates include:
· Magarini, Kilifi County: November 2nd-3rd
· Homabay and Migori: November 5th-6th
Furthermore, the party’s 20th-anniversary celebrations, initially planned before Raila’s passing, will proceed from November 14th to 16th in Mombasa. The festivities will now also serve as a celebration of Raila’s life and legacy. All preparation committees have been directed to continue their work.
The party also affirmed its commitment to participate in the upcoming November 27th by-elections, urging its county and branch officials to “grow the movement” without fear.
Appeal for Party Funds
In a direct appeal to the national government, ODM highlighted the delayed exchequer funding for political parties, stating it is owed “billions.” The party argued that the best way for the government to honour Raila Odinga, who fought tirelessly for political party funding, would be to release the money owed.
“This will ensure our programs can run and the legacy of our leader can remain secure,” the statement read.
The ODM reaffirmed its commitment to the broad-based government until 2027, a relationship it said is guided by a “ten-point agenda” for national peace and stability.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the party’s strength and a pledge to “rise stronger from adversity,” signing off with the words: “Rest in peace, Party Leader, People’s President and Comrade, Rt. Hon Raila Amolo Odinga.”
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