Support continues to swell for Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga following his appointment as interim leader of ODM. 

The party’s National Executive Council named Dr. Oburu to the role after the passing of its leader, Raila Odinga.

Endorsements have poured in from across the country, with delegates from Luo Nyanza and Turkana regions backing the NEC’s decision. 

The Movement for the Defense of Democracy (MDD), a youth caucus within the ODM party led by Victor Marende, has also thrown its weight behind Dr. Oburu.

During a visit to Dr. Oburu’s home in Bondo, Mr. Marende called upon the party’s National Governing Council (NGC) to swiftly ratify the NEC’s resolution.

He also announced that MDD had named Dr. Oburu as its patron and captain, symbolically passing the torch from the late Raila Odinga to the senator.

Sentiments echoed by other MDD and ODM members Fred Makajos and John Mukoya who expressed confidence that even though their captain Raila Odinga has departed, Dr. Oburu will still lead them to ‘Canaan’.

In response, Dr. Oburu expressed deep gratitude for the support and condolences, emphasizing the need for democratic vigilance and youth engagement, reiterating that they must stand firm for democracy. 

He also encouraged young people to hold leaders accountable to shape the future of this country.

The gathering also reaffirmed ODM’s continued cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration, a stance now championed by Dr. Oburu.