The Orange Democratic Movement on Friday confirmed Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga as its Party Leader during a Special National Delegates Convention at Jamuhuri Grounds, a pivotal gathering aimed at stabilizing the party ahead of future electoral battles.
Delegates overwhelmingly voted in favor of Oburu Odinga, who had been serving in an acting capacity. His name was proposed by Mumias West MP Johnson Naicca and seconded by Antony Tom Oluoch. Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, who presided over the proceedings, asked delegates to consider names forwarded by the National Executive Council for top positions.
“As many of the opinion say aye! As many of the contrary opinions say nay! The ayes have it! Dr. Senator Oburu Odinga is the party leader of the Orange Democratic Movement,” Junet declared to applause from the crowd.
Oburu was then presented with the instruments of power: the Constitution of Kenya, the ODM party constitution, and a symbolic wooden walking stick, marking a formal transition in the party that was long led by his late brother, Raila Odinga.
New deputy leaders and executive team elected
The convention also elected two governors as Deputy Party Leaders: Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and Kisii Governor Simba Arati. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was confirmed as National Chairperson, while Senior Counsel Otiende Amollo and John Ariko Namoit were voted in as Deputy Chairpersons.
Full list of new ODM leaders:
1. Party Leader – Senator Oburu Odinga
2. Deputy Party Leader – Governor Abdulswamad Shariff
3. Deputy Party Leader – Governor Simba Arati
4. Chairperson – Governor Gladys Wanga
5. Deputy Chairperson – Senior Counsel Otiende Amollo
6. Deputy Chairperson -John Ariko Namoit
7. National Organising Secretary – Ahmed Abdullahi
8. Deputy Organising Secretary – Ruth Odinga
8. Secretary, Political Affairs – Rosa Buyu
Senator Geoffrey Osotsi lost his position as Deputy Party Leader after failing to secure a proposer and seconder for retention.
The voting process unfolded smoothly under Junet Mohamed’s guidance, with delegates ratifying the leadership slate to strengthen party structures. Gladys Wanga later noted that some vacancies would remain unfilled, as the day’s agenda focused on specific positions rather than a comprehensive overhaul.
Party eyes unity and 2027 strategy amid internal dynamics
The Special NDC comes at a critical juncture for ODM, as the party seeks to consolidate its base and prepare for the 2027 General Election. Leaders emphasized unity and the need to honor the legacy of the movement’s foundational principles of social democracy and inclusive governance.
Oburu Odinga’s elevation is seen by supporters as a continuation of the Odinga family’s influence in Kenyan politics, while critics have raised questions about internal cohesion. Party officials, however, projected confidence, with calls for members to rally behind the new team.
The event at Jamuhuri Grounds drew delegates from across the country, reflecting ODM’s broad grassroots network. It also highlighted ongoing efforts to address party cracks and set a clear strategy moving forward.
Analysts say the ratified leadership could play a key role in navigating coalition possibilities and mobilizing support in key regions, including Nyanza, Coast, and Western Kenya.
