The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially endorsed Oburu Oginga as its substantive party leader, marking a significant transition following the death of longtime leader Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025. Dr. Oburu, who had been serving in an acting capacity after his nomination by the party’s National Governing Council (NGC), was formally approved during a Special Delegates Convention (SDC) held at Jamhuri Grounds on Friday.
His nomination received backing from Mumias West MP Johnson Manya Naicca and Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch, with the motion presented to delegates by ODM’s Director of Elections and Campaigns, Junet Mohamed.
Dr. Oburu will be deputized by Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and kisii governor Simba Arati. Both leaders were successfully proposed and seconded during the convention. However, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi failed to secure support for his nomination as Deputy Party Leader, as no proposer or seconder came forward. His bid was subsequently dropped, with Junet Mohamed confirming the decision before delegates.
The developments come amid growing internal divisions within ODM. A faction aligned with the so-called “Linda Mwananchi” movement skipped the official SDC and instead staged a parallel National Delegates Convention at Ufungamano House.
Key figures associated with this faction included: Edwin Sifuna, James Orengo, and Babu Owino. Their absence highlights ongoing tensions within the party as it navigates a post-Raila era.
Other Key Party Appointments
The convention also ratified several senior party officials:
- Gladys Wanga – National Chairperson
- Otiende Amollo – Deputy Chairperson
- John Ariko Namoit – Deputy Chairperson
- Ahmed Abdullahi – National Organizing Secretary
- Ruth Odinga – Deputy Organizing Secretary
- Rozah Buyu – Secretary for Political Affairs
The ratification of Oburu Oginga signals the beginning of a new leadership chapter for ODM as it seeks to maintain unity and political relevance amid internal contestation. With factions emerging and key decisions shaping its future, the party now faces the challenge of consolidating its base under new leadership.
