- ODM’s National Governing Council has confirmed Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as the new Party Leader.
- Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi, and Simba Arati approved as Deputy Party Leaders.
- Multiple leadership adjustments include new vice chairpersons and secretariat changes.
- Oburu’s appointment comes a month after the passing of former PM Raila Odinga.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially confirmed Senator Oburu Odinga as its Party Leader, moving him from an interim position to the top seat in the party’s hierarchy. The announcement was made on Thursday, November 13, after a meeting of the National Governing Council (NGC).
In its statement, the party noted that the leadership changes were part of a broader realignment following the loss of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15 while receiving treatment in India.
Alongside Oburu’s confirmation, the NGC approved a team of three Deputy Party Leaders meant to strengthen ODM’s national structure. The new deputies include: Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Mombasa Governor Godfrey Osotsi, Vihiga Senator Simba Arati, and Kisii Governor
The party indicated that the trio will play a key role in guiding ODM through its transition and upcoming political activities.
The council also approved several other appointments across the party’s leadership ranks. Ruth Odinga, the Kisumu Woman Representative, was confirmed as the Deputy Organising Secretary.
In the Vice Chairpersons docket, the NGC endorsed Otiendo Amollo (Rarieda MP) and Ariko Namoit (Turkana South MP) to serve alongside Johnes Mwaruma and Christine Lemein.
Additionally, Rosa Buyu was confirmed as the Secretary of Political Affairs, a role expected to be central in ODM’s upcoming political engagements.
Although these appointments have been approved by the NGC, they will take full effect after official ratification by the National Delegates Convention (NDC). The party says preparations for the NDC are underway.
Oburu’s rise to the party’s top position began shortly after the demise of his younger brother, Raila Odinga, who had led ODM since its formation. On October 16, the National Executive Committee named Oburu as interim party leader ahead of Raila’s body arriving in Kenya.
Thursday’s confirmation marks the beginning of a new chapter for ODM as it reorganises and prepares for political realignments in the coming months.
