Kacheliba Member of Parliament (MP) Titus Lotee has lauded Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga, describing him as a political genius and strategist whose influence cuts across Kenya’s political landscape.
Speaking during an interview on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Lotee said that many of Kenya’s top political figures, including President William Ruto, have been “students” of Raila’s political school of thought. He noted that this is why several dignitaries, including Ruto, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, have been invited to ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
“Show me one politician who is not a student of Raila, from Ruto to Kalonzo. That’s why, in their anniversary to be held in Mombasa, they have been invited as formative members,” Lotee remarked.
The MP further emphasized Raila’s longevity in Kenya’s politics, pointing out that the ODM leader has worked with every president since the country’s independence. “Raila has run through the political landscape for 40–50 years and worked with every president of this country. He knows that even after elections, the country has to move on. He is a political genius and strategist,” Lotee added.
ODM’s 20th Anniversary Celebrations
ODM will mark its 20th anniversary in Mombasa County from October 10–12, 2025. Party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna confirmed that the three-day fete will feature various activities, describing it as both a celebration and a rebirth of ODM ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“To birth a party and keep it alive for 20 years is no mean feat. As our leader has directed us, hatutaki maneno mingi—this is purely a celebration from start to finish,” Sifuna said.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir termed the anniversary a “political and national moment,” while ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga noted that it will reunite founding members who helped establish the party.
Interestingly, Mombasa also hosted ODM’s 10th anniversary, underlining the coastal city’s significance in the party’s history.
