Raila’s loyal aids face axe in emotional Capitol Hill showdown

Long-serving aides who formed the backbone of the late Raila Odinga political operations faced a heartbreaking dismissal during an emotional Capitol Hill showdown on Wednesday.

More than 90 staff members linked to the former prime minister were let go in a sweeping shake-up as Oburu Oginga moves to consolidate control over the Orange Democratic Movement. The Star reported that the decision was communicated during a closed-door meeting in Nairobi, with many employees learning of their fate in person.

The emotionally charged meeting on 11 March brought together administrators who had served Raila Odinga for years from the Capitol Hill office. The dismissals have sparked concern in political circles given the loyalty of the affected staff.

Oburu expanding power base

The staff purge coincides with Oburu Oginga move to a new operational base. On 10 March, the Siaya senator unveiled a private office in Nairobi Riverside estate along Riverside Drive near Strathmore University. The facility is modelled after the late Raila Odinga famous Capitol Hill office and comes with a full secretariat.

Speaking at the launch, Oburu said the office will continue operations in the same way they worked with his late brother. His security detail now includes a chase car and a helicopter has reportedly been placed on standby for nationwide travel. The upgrade from his previous office on the sixth floor of Bunge Towers signals his growing influence.

The changes have triggered sharp criticism from the Linda Mwananchi movement. Taifa Leo reported that movement leaders accused Oburu Oginga of betraying Raila Odinga legacy by partnering with the United Democratic Alliance. They gave the 10-point agenda a score of one out of 10 in a document titled Ajenda Kumi na Uongo, citing poor implementation.

Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna described a recent meeting at Kenyatta International Convention Centre as shameful drama. Siaya governor James Orengo said the agreement was merely a temporary ceasefire for 2024 protests and has now expired without delivering on devolution promises.

In Siaya, considered a traditional Orange Democratic Movement stronghold, power struggles are escalating. President Ruto visit to the county on 8 March saw Governor James Orengo sidelined, with deputy William Oduol positioned to host future development events.

The return of former Rarieda member of parliament Nicholas Gumbo to the Orange Democratic Movement and his declaration to contest the 2027 gubernatorial race is seen as part of efforts to counter Orengo influence. Tensions rose further after the arrest of Orengo main bodyguard and eight staff members ahead of the presidential visit.

The developments mark a significant transition period for the Orange Democratic Movement five months after Raila Odinga death. How Oburu Oginga manages internal dissent and party unity will shape the political landscape heading to 2027.