ODM party leader Raila Odinga has resurfaced on social media after more than two weeks of silence that had sparked speculation about his whereabouts.
On Friday, October 3, 2025, Raila broke his social media hiatus by posting on both X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, highlighting his meeting with Gor Mahia Football Club officials. In his message, Raila expressed support for the club’s campaign plans ahead of the new football season, wishing them success in reclaiming championship glory.
Before Friday’s posts, Raila’s last online activity had been on September 17, 2025. His unusual absence fueled public debate, especially after he skipped the burial of former Cabinet Minister Dalmas Otieno in Migori on October 2.
Otieno’s funeral was widely attended by political leaders, but Raila’s absence stood out due to their long and complex history. While Otieno once served as a key ODM member and Cabinet minister during Raila’s tenure as Prime Minister, the two leaders often clashed politically.
Their tensions date back to the early 2000s when Otieno participated in an attempted KANU–NDP merger, a move viewed as limiting Raila’s growing influence. Despite briefly working together during the 2008 coalition government, Otieno later launched the Kalausi movement in 2014, seeking to challenge ODM’s dominance in South Nyanza. This further strained relations with Raila’s supporters.
Although Otieno eventually faded from the political limelight, his rivalry with Raila left a lasting impression. Raila’s decision to skip his burial was thus seen as consistent with their complicated political relationship rather than a surprise snub.
Raila’s reappearance on social media is being interpreted as a signal of renewed political activity. With Kenya’s political landscape shifting ahead of upcoming by-elections, his return could mark the beginning of a more visible engagement in national debates.
For now, supporters are relieved to see the ODM leader active again after weeks of speculation. His next moves, both online and offline, will be closely watched as the country’s political calendar gathers momentum.
