ODM Appoints Oburu Odinga as Party Leader Amid Leadership Overhaul
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally appointed Senator Oburu Odinga as its new Party Leader, cementing his role after serving as interim leader since the death of his brother, Raila Odinga, in October.
Oburu Odinga Named ODM Party Leader
In a statement on November 13, 2025, ODM’s National Governing Council confirmed Oburu Odinga as Party Leader, alongside four Deputy Party Leaders: Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi, Simba Arati, and Ruth Odinga as Deputy Organising Secretary.
The appointments reflect a strategic reshuffle to stabilize the party after the loss of its founding icon. ODM also named Otiendo Amollo and Ariko Namoit as Vice-Chairpersons, joining Johnes Mwaruma and Christine Lemein. Rosa Buyu was approved as Secretary for Political Affairs—all pending ratification by the National Delegates Convention.
Leadership Transition Underway
Oburu stepped into the interim leadership on October 16, immediately after Raila Odinga’s passing in India. His formal elevation was widely anticipated, with party insiders confirming it was “a matter of when, not if.”
The move signals ODM’s intent to move forward under unified leadership, as it prepares for its 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa—from November 14 to 16—and the looming 2027 general elections.
Party Looks Ahead Amid Alliance with Ruto
As ODM prepares for its landmark anniversary, President Ruto’s attendance highlights a deepening political partnership with the Azimio coalition.
Raila Odinga’s legacy is now institutionalized. This will test Oburu Odinga’s leadership. He must balance internal cohesion. He also needs to manage alliances and electoral strategy.
