The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has appointed Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga as the acting party leader following the death of his brother, Raila Odinga.
The decision was reached during an early morning meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), held ahead of the arrival of Raila’s body at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:30 a.m.
“The National Executive Committee (NEC) has this morning met and unanimously endorsed the designation of the Senator of Siaya County, Dr. Oburu Oginga, as the Acting Party Leader. This appointment takes effect immediately,” read a statement from the party.
Speaking after the meeting, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir announced that condolence books had been opened in all ODM offices across the country to allow members of the public to pay their respects to the fallen leader.
He added that Raila’s body would lie in state at the Parliament Buildings between 12 noon and 5 p.m. to give Kenyans a chance to bid him farewell.
Governor Nassir assured supporters that the party remains firm and united despite the passing of its founder and long-serving leader.
“ODM remains united just like it was during the Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga’s time. We believe in unity of purpose, a stronger democratic party, and a party that must live on for many years to come,” he said.
He further explained that Dr. Oburu Odinga will serve in an interim capacity until the party’s top organs convene to elect a substantive leader to fill the role left by Raila.
“The NEC has designated Hon. Dr. Oburu Odinga to act as party leader until such a time when the party elects a substantive leader to carry forward Raila’s legacy,” he said.
Raila’s passing marks the end of an era for ODM and Kenya’s opposition politics, but party officials have vowed to preserve his vision and continue championing democracy, justice, and inclusivity in the country.
 has appointed Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga as the acting party leader following the death of his brother, Raila Odinga.){kind=link}