The transition marks a historic moment for the party after decades under the leadership of his younger brother, the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
Dr. Oburu, who has been a long-serving party elder and Senator for Siaya County, hit the ground running as he officially took over the reins, signaling a period of reflection and reorganization within Kenya’s oldest and most influential opposition movement.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna was present to oversee the brief but symbolic ceremony, which took place in the morning at the party’s Nairobi headquarters.
Edwin Sifuna hailed the new acting party leader for stepping into the role during a crucial time in ODM’s history, noting that Oburu’s political experience and long-standing service to the movement would help stabilize the party during its transition.
However, the ceremony also exposed cracks and questions about the party’s internal cohesion. Several top leaders were notably absent, sparking speculation about emerging divisions within ODM’s top ranks.
Those missing included Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Minority Leader and Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, Nominated MP John Mbadi, and former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho.
Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, a key figure in Raila’s political machinery, was also absent, raising eyebrows among party loyalists and observers alike.
Despite the absences, the atmosphere at Chungwa House was largely one of optimism and resolve.
Party staff and grassroots representatives expressed hope that ODM would continue to champion democratic reforms and unity even as it navigates leadership transitions.
But even as the dust settles on Raila’s monumental legacy, the spotlight now turns to Dr. Oburu Oginga — the man tasked with steering ODM through a new dawn and uncertain political waters.
