The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially confirmed Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga as the party’s new leader, formally taking over from his late brother, Raila Odinga.
The decision was made during a special sitting of the National Governing Council (NGC) in Mombasa, held ahead of the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations scheduled for this weekend. The council met to fill pending leadership positions and outline the party’s future direction following Raila’s passing.
Deputy Party Leaders Also Confirmed
The NGC also ratified three deputy party leaders:
Abdulswamad Nassir, Governor of Mombasa
Simba Arati, Governor of Kisii
Godfrey Osotsi, Senator of Vihiga
Additionally, Ruth Odinga was approved as Deputy Organising Secretary, while Rosa Buyu, the Kisumu West MP, was confirmed as Secretary of Political Affairs.
All the appointees will formally take office after the National Delegates Convention (NDC) gives final approval.
Oburu Takes Over After Raila’s Passing
Oburu Oginga was first named acting party leader on October 16, 2025 by the National Executive Council (NEC), shortly after Raila Odinga died while undergoing medical treatment in India.
ODM had postponed its planned anniversary celebrations in Mombasa to accommodate Raila’s treatment abroad. After his passing, party officials agreed to proceed with the celebrations as a way to honour Raila’s legacy and reaffirm the party’s unity.
ODM leaders say the new appointments will help stabilize the party and prepare it for upcoming political activities, including by-elections and internal restructuring.
The NGC noted that confirming Oburu as party leader is an important step in ensuring continuity within the movement that Raila Odinga led for decades.
