ODM youth member Kasmuel McOure has strongly defended Dr. Oburu Oginga’s leadership, amid growing succession tensions within the party. McOure warned that attacks on Oburu were effectively attacks on the late Raila Odinga’s judgment and the party structures he built over the years.
In a statement released on Tuesday, McOure emphasized that Oburu’s confirmation as party leader was the result of careful planning by Raila to secure ODM’s future. He dismissed efforts by a “cunning faction” within the party attempting to create an alternative power centre.
“Every decision Baba made regarding the future of ODM led to Dr. Oburu’s confirmation as party leader. He remains our leader, and we shall defend him as fiercely as we defended His Excellency Raila Odinga,” McOure said, adding that no amount of money or manipulation could change the party’s stance.
The remarks follow EALA MP Winnie Odinga’s fiery speeches during ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa. Raila’s youngest daughter accused certain party leaders of holding secret meetings to negotiate ODM’s future, raising questions about the party’s independence ahead of the 2027 elections.
Dr. Oburu responded cautiously, dismissing the call for a National Delegates Conference publicly while promising private discussions with Winnie to address her concerns. His approach reflects the delicate balance ODM leaders must maintain between respecting Raila’s family and asserting control over party affairs.
Oburu has been a central figure in ODM since 2005, holding roles including MP for Bondo and Assistant Minister for Finance. Following Raila’s death in 2025, he was appointed acting leader, a decision later ratified by the party’s National Governing Council.
McOure credited Oburu’s steady leadership with maintaining party unity and preventing mass defections, urging all members to respect the hierarchy and discipline that has historically sustained ODM.
As the party prepares for upcoming organisational activities and national engagements, McOure’s message is clear: Oburu Oginga is the legitimate heir to Raila Odinga’s legacy, and any attempts to undermine him will face strong internal resistance.
