ODM leader Oburu Oginga has dismissed claims that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) lost its political relevance following the death of its former leader, Raila Odinga.
Speaking during an interview on TV47’s Habari show hosted by Elizabeth Mutuku, Oburu acknowledged the challenge of taking over the leadership of a party that had been closely associated with Raila for years.
“This year has been difficult for me because, first, I did not know whether I would be able to take this opportunity to lead ODM, which is the biggest party compared to other parties,” Oburu said.
He admitted that succeeding Raila was not an easy task, noting that his late brother had established himself as a dominant figure in opposition politics.
“This job is not easy because Raila had built that stature which was like he was the automatic leader of opposition, and people expected he would be the President of this country,” he said.
Oburu said Raila’s political legacy had created significant expectations around whoever would take over the party’s leadership.
“Raila’s shoes were big,” he stated, adding that he had nevertheless developed his own political identity and leadership style.
“I also gained knowledge and made my own which fits me,” Oburu said.
Oburu vows to strengthen ODM
The ODM leader dismissed claims that the party had effectively died following Raila’s death, insisting that the political outfit remained active.
“Many people said ODM was buried the day Raila was buried, but we are telling them, ng’ooo!” he said.
Oburu maintained that the party remained focused on strengthening its structures and attracting new supporters as it prepares for future elections.
He said ODM would also seek to ensure that its internal nomination processes are conducted fairly, promising transparent and credible nominations.
“We want clean party nominations,” Oburu said, adding that members would be treated fairly and without favouritism.
He further said some members who had left the party over concerns about unfair treatment had been forgiven and could still return to ODM.
The remarks come as ODM works to navigate its leadership transition following Raila’s death and reposition itself ahead of future electoral contests.
