Many of these politicians, especially from the Nyanza region, had entered Parliament through the political support and mentorship of the veteran politician.
At Parliament Buildings on Friday, there was a visible group of MPs who appeared politically orphaned following Raila’s death.
These were the legislators who had been his staunch defenders, especially during times when he was at odds with President William Ruto.
Among them are MPs Peter Kaluma (Homa Bay Town), Millie Odhiambo (Suba North), Otiende Amollo (Rarieda), and Adipo Okuome (Karachuonyo), among others.
James Orengo and Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, the two are now governors, despite working with Raila Odinga for decades, are poised to face an uphill going forward.
Analysts say Orengo faces an uphill task in defending his seat in the 2027 general election.
This is because the late Odinga played a significant role in his victory in the last election.
“In the Luo Nyanza region, governors such as Orengo of Siaya, Ochilo Ayacko of Migori, and even Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay will have to sweat it out in 2027 as they seek to defend their seats without Raila’s shadow,” says political analyst Martin Andati.
“There’s also a high likelihood that other ODM governors serving their first terms, such as Fernandes Barasa (Kakamega), Paul Otuoma (Busia), Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir (Mombasa), and Gideon Mung’aro (Kilifi) among others — will face similar challenges,” he adds.
His sentiments are echoed by political commentator Herman Manyora, who also doubts the ability of ODM’s acting leader, Oburu Oginga, to maintain unity within the party.
“In my view, Oburu lacks the political charisma that Raila possessed. He doesn’t have strong appeal among ordinary citizens. That’s why it will be difficult for him to command respect from ODM leaders and members leaving many politicians who relied on Raila as political orphans,” explains the analyst, who is also a lecturer at the University of Nairobi.
Beyond MPs, another group of Raila loyalists left politically adrift comprises former ODM leaders who now serve as Cabinet Secretaries in the Unity Government.
These include Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), Hassan Joho (Mining), John Mbadi (Finance), Wycliffe Oparanya (Political Affairs), and Beatrice Askul (East African Affairs).
These five previously held top positions within ODM before President Ruto appointed them to their current cabinet posts in July last year.
