[PHOTOS] ODM marks 20 years as youth urged to lead party into new era

“Take over the party, make it vibrant, take the party forward, and take us to Canaan," Wanga told youths

by JAMES GICHIGI

News14 November 2025 - 15:00

In Summary

Wanga said the party’s future rests squarely on the shoulders of young people, whom she described as the heartbeat of the movement.
She urged young people to occupy party positions at all levels, noting that their energy, creativity, and demographic strength were critical in shaping the party’s direction.

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Celebrations as ODM officials mark the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations on Friday, November 14, 2025/JOHN CHESOLI

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) marked its 20th anniversary on Friday with a major celebration in Mombasa, using the milestone to honour its past while charting a path for its future.

The 20-year mark showcased ODM’s resilience, from electoral battles to grassroots mobilisation, and its determination to rebuild, reorganise, and prepare for the next political cycle.

The event doubled as a tribute to party founder Raila Odinga and his decades-long contribution to Kenya’s democratic journey.

The event was graced by several senior ODM leaders, including party chairperson Gladys Wanga, Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir.

The Chairperson led the call for renewal, urging the youth to take charge of the party’s next chapter.

Addressing hundreds of supporters, Wanga said the future of ODM lies squarely in the hands of young people, whom she described as the heartbeat of the movement.

“ODM is you. This party belongs to the youth. Take over the party, make it vibrant and strong, take the party forward and take us to Canaan!" she told the gathering, adding that the best way to honour Raila’s legacy is by strengthening and revitalising the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

The anniversary celebrations came just a day after ODM’s National Governing Council unveiled a refreshed leadership lineup, signalling a structured transition following Raila Odinga’s expanded continental role.

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga was formally approved as the party’s leader, anchoring ODM’s next phase. Several senior politicians—among them Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osoti—were endorsed as deputy party leaders.

Other appointments included Vice Chairpersons Ariko Namoit and Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, Senior Counsel, who were confirmed in their posts.

Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga was named Deputy Organising Secretary, while Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu took up the role of Secretary of Political Affairs.

As the party steps into its third decade, leaders say the task now is to blend history with renewal, honour legacy with innovation, and ensure the movement remains a central force in Kenya’s political landscape.