Winnie Odinga Reacts After Oburu is Ratified as ODM’s New Party Leader: “With All Humility”

Winnie Odinga Reacts After Oburu is Ratified as ODM’s New Party Leader: “With All Humility”

A mix of symbolism, celebration, and political messaging marked a defining moment for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as delegates formally ratified Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga as the party’s substantive leader, drawing reactions from key figures including Winnie Odinga.

The decision, made during the Special Delegates Conference (SDC) held on March 27 at the ASK Grounds Jamhuri Park, ended months of uncertainty following Oburu’s tenure in an acting capacity after the death of longtime party leader Raila Odinga in October 2025.

Delegates from across the country gathered for the high-stakes meeting, which combined formal proceedings with symbolic gestures intended to signal continuity and renewal within one of Kenya’s most influential political parties.

During the event, Oburu was ceremonially handed instruments of leadership, including the ODM party constitution, the Constitution of Kenya, and a traditional walking stick symbolising authority. The handover was accompanied by chants and celebrations from delegates, reflecting both relief and optimism among supporters.

Suna East MP Junet Mohamed explained the significance of the ceremony, drawing parallels between party leadership transitions and national governance.

“The mighty ODM party is like a government. ODM is like a big government here in Kenya. When you elect a new president, there is a transfer of power. That also applies to the party. Now we transfer the power of ODM to Oburu,” Junet said.

The symbolic transfer was overseen by senior legal figures, including former judge Stewart Madzayo, alongside lawyers Otiende Amollo and TJ Kajwang, adding a formal and ceremonial weight to the proceedings.

In her reaction, Winnie Odinga emphasised the importance of youth inclusion within the party’s structures, reflecting a growing call among younger members for greater representation in decision-making processes.

Oburu, responding to her remarks in his acceptance speech, pledged to lead an inclusive and democratic party while maintaining organisational discipline.

“I want to tell my daughter Winnie that we are not going to expel people. We are going to be a party that includes all people. But we are also going to maintain democratic principles, because we are a democratic party,” he said.

He underscored that while ODM would remain open to diverse views, its decisions would continue to be guided by democratic processes, where majority consensus prevails while minority voices are respected.

Oburu also addressed criticism from rival factions within the party, dismissing allegations that ODM had been compromised or influenced by external interests.

“Those saying that ODM has been bought, who bought it? At my age, can somebody buy me, and for how much?” he posed, in remarks widely interpreted as a response to internal dissent.

The new party leader further signalled ODM’s intention to engage in coalition-building ahead of the 2027 General Election, indicating that negotiations with like-minded political actors would continue.

The conference also resulted in significant changes to the party’s leadership structure. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir and Kisii Governor Simba Arati were approved as deputy party leaders.

Meanwhile, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi failed to secure the deputy position after not receiving the necessary nomination and seconding during the proceedings.

Delegates also ratified Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga as the party’s National Chairperson, with Otiende Amollo and John Ariko Namoit appointed as her deputies.

Political observers say the developments mark a critical turning point for ODM as it seeks to stabilise its leadership and redefine its identity in the post-Raila era.

As the party moves forward under Oburu’s leadership, attention will focus on whether his commitment to inclusivity and internal cohesion can bridge divisions and position ODM effectively in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.

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Winnie Odinga Reacts After Oburu is Ratified as ODM’s New Party Leader: “With All Humility”