ODM Charts Path Forward with New Leadership and Nationwide Memorials

The Orange Democratic Movement has named Hon. Dr. Oburu Oginga as its new Party Leader, following a Central Committee meeting held on Sunday, October 27, 2025, to address the leadership vacuum left by the death of longtime leader Raila Odinga.

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In a statement delivered by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, the party announced a series of resolutions aimed at ensuring continuity while honoring the legacy of the fallen political icon.

Leadership Transition

The Central Committee endorsed Dr. Oburu Oginga, brother to the late Raila Odinga, to take the helm of the party during this critical period. Party officials urged all members to provide Dr. Oginga with the necessary support and cooperation as he navigates the party through the transition.

“We express our deep gratitude to the people and Government of Kenya for the outpouring of love and solidarity extended to our departed leader and his family,” Sifuna said.

Nationwide Memorial Services

Responding to public demand, ODM announced memorial services across multiple counties to allow Kenyans to pay their respects to the late leader. The services will be held in Magarini, Kilifi County on November 2-3, followed by events in Homabay and Migori counties on November 5-6.

Commitment to Raila’s Vision

The party pledged to uphold the principles that defined Raila Odinga’s political career, including diversity, equality, justice, and peace. “In honor of his legacy as a unifier who brought together people from all backgrounds, ODM shall continue embracing diversity and fighting for justice both at home and beyond our borders,” the statement read.

In an emotional tribute, the party declared that Raila Odinga “has joined the nearest branch of ODM in heaven,” and vowed to strengthen existing party structures and establish new branches to keep his supporters connected to his legacy.

ODM@20 Celebrations to Proceed

Despite the mourning period, the party confirmed that its 20th-anniversary celebrations will go ahead as scheduled on November 14-16. The ODM@20 events will include activities designed to cement unity and solidarity within the party, with all organizing committees instructed to continue preparations.

Broad-Based Government Commitment Stands

In a significant political statement, ODM reaffirmed its participation in the broad-based government arrangement until 2027. The partnership, guided by a ten-point agenda, was entered into for the sake of national peace and stability.

“As the top leadership of this party, we shall pursue all causes he dedicated his life to and do everything within our power to uphold party unity,” Sifuna stated. “We will apply lessons learned from our departed leader in service to the nation and the people he loved and fought for.”

The party called on all members and Kenyans to celebrate Raila Odinga’s life in a dignified manner befitting his leadership and sacrifices, while participating in memorial activities with discipline and respect.

ODM extended its condolences to the Odinga family, friends worldwide, and the people of Kenya as the nation mourns one of its most prominent political figures.

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