ODM Faces Defining Moment as Winnie Odinga Steps into Raila’s Political Shoes

Kenya, 24 October 2025 - Political developments have begun to unfold rapidly following the end of the seven-day mourning period declared by President William Ruto in honour of former prime minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

The mourning period, which united the nation in reflection, has now given way to intense political activity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as the party and the Odinga family's move to secure Raila’s legacy and preserve the political movement he built over decades.

Sources close to the Odinga family indicate that Raila’s youngest daughter, Winnie Odinga, is set to take on an expanded political role within ODM, effectively stepping into her father’s shoes.

Her emergence signals the beginning of a generational transition that could reshape both the party’s internal dynamics and the broader opposition landscape in Kenya.

Winnie, who has long been a visible and vocal figure in ODM circles, is now expected to spearhead efforts to reinvigorate the party’s grassroots structures and reconnect with the youth — a constituency that was central to Raila’s political philosophy.

The ODM Central Committee has called an urgent meeting scheduled for Monday to deliberate on key party matters, including leadership transitions and the way forward in the post-Raila era.

According to ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir, the meeting will be chaired by interim party leader Oburu Oginga, who is Raila’s elder brother and a veteran politician and Siaya Senator.

Governor Nassir confirmed that the meeting’s agenda includes charting the party’s immediate political direction and safeguarding ODM’s influence in Kenya.

Party insiders have hinted that Oburu Oginga may be formally confirmed as ODM’s substantive party leader, at least in the interim, to ensure stability during this sensitive transition period.

Such a move, they argue, would maintain continuity and protect the Odinga family’s symbolic and political hold on the party.

Oburu, a respected elder statesman, is viewed as a unifying figure who could oversee a smooth handover to the next generation of ODM leadership — with Winnie expected to play a central role in that future configuration.

Winnie’s anticipated ascendancy is already generating mixed reactions within ODM and across the wider political spectrum.

Supporters see her as a natural successor who embodies her father’s ideals of social justice, equality, and pan-Africanism.

They describe her as a modern, articulate leader capable of bridging the generational gap and reviving ODM’s fortunes ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Critics, however, warn that the party risks being perceived as dynastic, with leadership revolving around one family.

They argue that ODM must balance respect for Raila’s legacy with the need for internal democracy and inclusivity.

Political analysts believe the current developments mark a critical juncture not only for ODM but also for Kenya’s opposition politics.

"For nearly three decades, ODM leader, Odinga, stood as the face of reformist politics, championing multiparty democracy and governance accountability," noted political scientist Tom Mboya.

His absence leaves a vacuum that will test ODM’s resilience and organisational strength.

Analysts say how the party navigates this transition — and whether it can rally around a cohesive leadership structure — will determine its relevance in the coming political cycles.

Meanwhile, ODM’s secretariat is reportedly working on a strategy to maintain momentum in regions that have long been Raila’s strongholds, including Nyanza, Nairobi, the Coast, and parts of Western Kenya.

Sources disclosed, that the party plans to launch a series of grassroots consultative meetings to reassure supporters of its unity and continuity.

Winnie is expected to play a visible role in these efforts, leveraging her growing social media presence and youthful appeal to reconnect with the base.

In recent public appearances, Winnie has hinted at her readiness to carry forward her father’s mission telling the President she is keen on returning home from EALA where she is currently serving as a regional legislator.

Speaking during memorial events, she emphasized the need to protect Raila’s political legacy and ensure that ODM remains the vehicle for social transformation in Kenya.

“My father’s vision was for a just and united Kenya. That light must not go out,” she said — a statement many interpreted as a declaration of intent.

As the ODM Central Committee meeting approaches, political observers are watching closely for signs of consensus or discord.

Key decisions on leadership appointments, strategic alliances, and future party activities will likely shape ODM’s political direction for years to come.

While Oburu’s leadership may serve as a transitional bridge, all eyes are on Winnie to see whether she can rally the party faithful and sustain the momentum that her father so skillfully built over his lifetime.

Ultimately, ODM’s ability to manage this delicate succession will determine whether it remains a formidable political force or risks fragmentation.

The coming days promise to be decisive — not just for the Odinga family, but for the future of Kenya’s opposition politics.