The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially approved Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as its party leader, following a decision by the party’s National Governing Council. The approval, however, awaits formal ratification by the National Delegates Convention (NDC).
Alongside Oburu, the council endorsed Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osoti as deputy party leaders. Other key appointments confirmed include vice chairpersons Ariko Namoit and Rarieda MP, Senior Counsel Otiende Amollo, while Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga was named Deputy Organising Secretary and Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu as Secretary of Political Affairs.
Oburu, who has been acting as ODM party leader since October 16 following the death of his brother, Raila Odinga, joked about being the “Gen Z leader” during his tenure. Raila passed away on October 15 in India due to cardiac arrest. The party’s Central Management Committee had earlier endorsed Oburu’s appointment as interim leader on October 27.
During the first Ecumenical Memorial service for Raila in Homa Bay County on November 5, Oburu emphasized party unity, pledging that ODM would continue serving Kenyans and remain part of the broad-based government.
Oburu’s confirmation comes a day before ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations, set for November 14–16 at the Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa. The celebrations, originally scheduled for October, were postponed to allow wider participation from counties and supporters, reflecting ODM’s commitment to inclusivity and democracy.
In a statement on November 10, Oburu described the milestone as a tribute to two decades of political struggle, sacrifice, and service, honoring his late brother Raila’s legacy as a champion of modern democracy in Kenya.
The event is expected to draw ODM founding members, President William Ruto, and potentially former President Uhuru Kenyatta, though his attendance remains uncertain.
