Nyanza ODM delegates endorse Oburu to succeed Raila as party leader

Delegates from the Orange Democratic Movement party in Kisumu, Siaya, Migori and Homa Bay counties Friday formally endorsed Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga to take over as party leader following the death of Raila Odinga.

The endorsement, made at a meeting in Homa Bay, now cements growing regional support for Oburu, elder brother to the late ODM founder, as he assumes the helm of the party during a delicate leadership transition.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga who spoke during the event said the endorsement followed the National Executive Council’s (NEC) recent appointment of Oburu as acting party leader.

“In light of recent developments and the appointment of Oburu as the Acting Party Leader by the ODM National Executive Council, we unequivocally endorse him for the position. We stand united in our unwavering support for him as we decisively advance the party's agenda,” said Wanga.

Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ stressed the importance of having the party to remain united.

He described ODM as a “complex organism” with roots and representation across Kenya, insisting the party must retain its national character even as it consolidates its base in Nyanza.

ODM, he said, is not a Luo party but a national party.

He assured members that Oburu had the capabilities to steer the party 

"I have confidence that Oburu Odinga has the temperament, wisdom and maturity to lead all members of ODM, be they from the Coast, Western, or Nairobi," he stated.

"May God hold your hand as you lead not just this community, but the entire nation."

The show of unity comes just a week after the NEC met and unanimously appointed Oburu as Acting Party Leader, a decision that took effect immediately.

Raila who died October 15 from cardiac arrest while on treatment in India was buried last Sunday at family's gravesite in Bondo, Siaya county. 

“The National Executive Committee (NEC) has this morning met and unanimously endorsed the designation of the Senator of Siaya County Dr Oburu Oginga as the Acting Party Leader. This appointment takes effect immediately,” the party said on October 16, a day after Raila's passing. 

The appointment of Oburu is expected to ensure continuity in leadership as the party prepares to chart its next course.

The NEC’s decision marks the first major internal move by ODM since the loss of its founding leader, whose political career spanned over four decades.

ODM has been one of Kenya’s most influential political movements, playing a central role in shaping the country’s opposition politics for nearly two decades.