Oburu Odinga Calls for Calm as Family Moves to Settle Rift in Private Talks

Kenya, January 24 2026 - Oburu Odinga has sought to lower the temperature over reported tensions within the Odinga family, saying the issues will be addressed through dialogue and not public confrontation.

Speaking on Saturday, the ODM leader and family elder said there was no cause for alarm, despite growing speculation about divisions that emerged after President William Ruto appointed Mama Ida Odinga as Kenya’s Ambassador to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Oburu confirmed that a family meeting has been scheduled for February 1, describing it as a space for open and honest conversation, particularly with younger family members who have expressed discomfort with recent developments.

“There will be a family conversation where we sit together, listen to one another and reassure everyone of love, care and support as one family,” he said. “I am available and ready to guide and advise where needed.”

His remarks come at a sensitive moment for one of Kenya’s most influential political families, barely three months after the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. On Saturday, Oburu and his sister Winnie attended separate events in Nyanza, a detail that has fuelled public interest in the apparent rift.

The disagreement is understood to have deepened following Mama Ida’s diplomatic appointment, with some relatives reportedly caught off guard and feeling insufficiently consulted.

Raila Odinga’s elder son, Raila Junior, on Friday distanced himself from the political debate, calling for clarity and an earlier meeting. “I am not a politician. I respect everyone and love everyone. I do not know what is happening, and I do not want to be dragged into politics,” he said.