In a powerful show of unity and resolve, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially endorsed Dr. Oburu Oginga as its acting party leader. The announcement, made during a high-profile gathering of party delegates, elected leaders, elders, and clergy from across Nyanza region, marks a pivotal moment in the party’s journey toward national consolidation.
The endorsement follows a unanimous decision by the National Executive Committee (NEC), which appointed Dr. Oburu to steer the party through a transitional period. Speaking to an energized crowd, Dr. Oburu expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him.
“I am very proud of my people. I am proud that you have given me this support,” he said. “I promise not to let you down. This is not about uniting the Luo it is about uniting Kenya.”
Rarieda MP Otiende Amolo emphasized the breadth of support behind Dr. Oburu’s elevation, noting that delegates from all four counties of Nyanza, along with governors, MPs, MCAs, and religious leaders, had endorsed the decision.
“This is not just a regional endorsement,” Amolo declared. “It is the final affirmation by the National Governing Council.”
The gathering also served as a moment of solidarity with the family of Mama Ida Odinga, reaffirming the party’s commitment to Raila Odinga’s legacy of unity and justice.
ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga delivered a firm message on party discipline and loyalty to structures.
“The National Executive Committee has spoken. Dr. Oburu Oginga is our acting party leader. As members of ODM, we must respect that decision,” she said. “If you are true to Raila Odinga and to the ideals of this party, you cannot go against its structures.”
Wanga emphasized that ODM’s strength lies in its unity and its ability to speak with one voice.
“This is not the time for division. It is the time to rally behind our leadership and move forward together.”
Senator Moses Kajwang’ painted a vivid picture of ODM’s national reach, likening the party to a living organism.
“The heart is in Luo land. The head is in Western. The lungs are in the Coast. The kidneys are in Nairobi,” he said. “ODM is not a Luo party—it is a national party.”
Kajwang’ expressed confidence in Dr. Oburu’s ability to lead the party across Kenya’s diverse regions, citing his wisdom, maturity, and temperament.
Senator Tom Ojienda of Kisumu outlined the challenges ahead for Dr. Oburu, urging him to engage with President William Ruto to secure the community’s interests and uphold Raila Odinga’s legacy of inclusivity.
“Gather all. Do not scatter,” Ojienda advised.
Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu echoed the call for unity, stressing the importance of respecting party structures and leadership.
“If Baba asked us to go right, we went right. If he asked us to go left, we went left. That is loyalty,” she said. “The way to prove that now is by staying united not just in Nyanza, but across Kenya.”
Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohamed closed the event with a heartfelt message:
“This moment is not just about leadership—it is about legacy. It is about standing firm in our values and moving forward together. Dr. Oburu Oginga carries the torch, and we stand behind him.”
As ODM charts its next chapter, the message from Nyanza is clear: unity, respect for structure, and a commitment to national cohesion will guide the party forward.
