Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has been officially crowned as the leader of the Luo community, succeeding his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The coronation took place during the 5th Luo Piny Festival held in Migori on December 17, 2025, with President William Ruto attending the historic event.
Oburu was crowned with the traditional Luo feather crown, a symbol of leadership, and presented with a spear and shield to signify his role as the defender of the community. He also received a whisk, representing the call for peace.
In his first address as the community leader, Oburu pledged to serve with integrity, unity, and purpose. “I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep commitment to serve with integrity, unity, and purpose,” he wrote on his social media account.
During the ceremony, Oburu performed the traditional spear dance while chanting Jowi, reinforcing his commitment to peace and cultural preservation. Community elders and festival attendees hailed the coronation as a historic moment, affirming the Odinga family’s enduring influence in Luo leadership and culture.
The festival, which brings together thousands of Luo people from across Kenya, served as a platform for celebrating culture, tradition, and communal unity, marking the transition of leadership in a time of reflection and hope for the community.
