The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially confirmed Senator Oburu Odinga as the party leader, following his interim appointment last month after the passing of his brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The announcement was made on Thursday, November 13, by ODM in a statement detailing several leadership changes.
The party’s National Governing Council (NGC) approved the appointments of Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi, and Simba Arati as Deputy Party Leaders. Additionally, Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga was appointed Deputy Organising Secretary.
Other significant appointments include Otiendo Amollo (Rarieda MP) and Ariko Namoit (Turkana South MP) as Vice Chairpersons, joining Johnes Mwaruma and Christine Lemein in the party’s leadership team. Rosa Buyu was also confirmed as Secretary of Political Affairs. These appointments will formally take effect following ratification by the National Delegates Convention (NDC).
Oburu Odinga’s formalization as party leader comes just a month after his interim appointment on October 16, following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting shortly after Raila Odinga’s death in India on October 15. ODM had previously indicated that the long-serving legislator was the preferred choice to lead the party permanently.
The leadership reshuffle arrives as ODM prepares to mark its 20th anniversary in Mombasa from November 14 to 16. The celebrations are expected to draw senior ODM leaders and prominent national figures, including President William Ruto, who is scheduled to attend the ODM Founders’ Dinner on Saturday.
As ODM looks ahead, the new appointments are expected to shape the party’s strategy in a post-Raila era, particularly in relation to ongoing partnerships with President Ruto and preparations for the 2027 General Election. The changes signal a concerted effort by ODM to consolidate leadership and ensure continuity while navigating Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
