In the wake of Raila Odinga’s passing, the Orange Democratic Movement faced a historic test. The question was whether the party could survive without its magnetic founder or fragment under the weight of competing ambitions.
Oburu Oginga’s ascension as acting leader has answered that question decisively. Rather than being a caretaker, Oburu has emerged as the stabilising force ODM needed. Under his stewardship, the Orange party has not only held together but shown resilience and strategic coherence, reinforcing the Odinga legacy and restoring confidence among supporters.
The Odinga brothers represent two distinct approaches to political leadership. Raila was the revolutionary vanguard — a mass mobiliser and charismatic icon whose vision of Canaan inspired millions. His politics relied on public rallies, confrontational pressure and sheer personality.
Oburu, in contrast, is the political quartermaster. Where Raila energised crowds, he strengthens the machinery behind them. An economist with a PhD and seasoned legislator, his leadership style is measured, strategic and deeply pragmatic. He has leveraged his networks, negotiation skills and understanding of Kenya’s political and fiscal architecture to consolidate ODM’s internal structures.
In the months since taking charge, the Siaya senator has demonstrated his capacity to unify factions, manage delicate alliances and enforce party discipline. His leadership is proof that the Orange party can survive beyond a single figurehead — and even thrive.
Oburu’s immediate achievements are tangible. First, he has stabilised the party hierarchy, deterring internal fragmentation and quieting dissent among regional barons and emerging young leaders. What could have been a period of turmoil has instead become one of strengthened unity.
Second, he has positioned ODM as a credible partner in national politics, bridging the gap between opposition and establishment actors without compromising the party’s identity. This careful diplomacy ensures ODM remains a formidable force while avoiding the pitfalls of reckless confrontation.
Third, Oburu has been mindful of generational politics. Describing himself as ‘Gen Z and youth at heart,’ he has actively engaged Kenya’s young electorate, signalling that the party is attuned to their aspirations and digital energy. This connection with youth is already paying dividends in bolstering the party’s relevance and outreach.
This week, ODM will mark its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of political struggle and achievement with a series of nationwide activities from Friday onwards. As the acting party leader, Oburu’s participation will be both symbolic and strategic — honouring Raila’s legacy while demonstrating that ODM remains united and forward-looking. His presence will reassure members and supporters that the party is in capable hands, even in the absence of its founder.
The unity that was tested in ODM’s recent transitions is now stronger. Oburu has proved himself a capable steward — a leader who balances pragmatism with vision. Under his helm, the party is poised not merely to survive, but to reclaim political victories across the country.
Orange supporters can anticipate their own ‘Canaan’ — tangible outcomes that reflect the consolidation and forward momentum of the party. Governorships, parliamentary seats and strategic influence in national politics are now within reach, thanks to Oburu’s meticulous planning and unwavering commitment to the party’s cohesion.
Unlike a personality-driven crusade, this Canaan is pragmatic: a unified, disciplined and forward-looking ODM capable of delivering both representation and results to its base. The promise of victory is no longer aspirational; it is increasingly operational under Oburu’s leadership.
ODM has not merely appointed a caretaker; it has chosen a strategist and guardian of its legacy. The Siaya senator has turned potential vulnerability into an opportunity for consolidation, proving that the Orange party can endure, adapt and thrive in a new era.
His leadership has ensured that the party remains united, focused and strategically positioned. The Orange army is intact, its factions aligned and its supporters energised with renewed purpose. Oburu has shown that survival without Raila is not only possible but can lead to greater cohesion and eventual triumph.
As ODM charts its next chapter and celebrates 20 years of
existence, supporters can look forward to the realisation of Canaan — the
fulfillment of a vision nurtured under decades of struggle, now guided by the
steady hand of Oburu.
