The Orange Democratic Movement on Friday confirmed Oburu Odinga as its Party Leader during a Special National Delegates Convention at Jamhuri Grounds, in a pivotal move aimed at stabilising the party ahead of future electoral contests.
Oburu Odinga confirmed as party leader
Delegates overwhelmingly backed Oburu Odinga, who had been serving in an acting capacity. His name was proposed by Johnson Naicca and seconded by Antony Tom Oluoch.
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.
Oburu was later presented with instruments of power, including the Constitution of Kenya, the party constitution and a symbolic wooden walking stick, marking a formal transition in a party long associated with his late brother, Raila Odinga.
New deputy leaders and executive team named
The convention also elected two governors as Deputy Party Leaders: Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and Simba Arati.
Gladys Wanga was confirmed as National Chairperson, while Otiende Amollo and John Ariko Namoit were elected 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
Geoffrey Osotsi lost his position as Deputy Party Leader after failing to secure a proposer and seconder for retention.
The voting process proceeded smoothly under Junet Mohamed’s guidance, with delegates ratifying the leadership slate. Gladys Wanga noted that some positions would remain vacant as the convention focused on select roles rather than a full leadership overhaul.
Party turns focus to unity and 2027 elections
The Special NDC comes at a critical time for the Orange Democratic Movement as it seeks to consolidate support and prepare for the 2027 General Election.
Leaders at the event emphasised unity and the need to uphold the party’s founding ideals of social democracy and inclusive governance.
Oburu Odinga’s elevation is viewed by supporters as a continuation of the Odinga family’s political influence, though some critics have raised concerns about internal cohesion. Party officials, however, expressed confidence and urged members to rally behind the new leadership.
The gathering at Jamhuri Grounds drew delegates from across the country, underscoring the party’s grassroots reach and ongoing efforts to address internal divisions while shaping its future strategy.
