Raila Odinga’s wife, Ida Odinga, has put the record straight, asserting that Oburu Odinga remains the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader in line with the party’s decision.

Speaking in Bondo on Saturday, December 6, 2025, during Beryl Odinga’s burial, the spouse of the departed leader addressed the leadership crisis that has surrounded the confirmation of Oburu as the new party leader.

She stated that both the family and the party recognise him as the legitimate leader

ODM leadership

“In our family, the Odinga family, Oburu is head of the family. Apart from the family, there is ODM, and the people of ODM have spoken. The party leader is Oburu. So to those writing stories on Facebook, the party leader is still Oburu,” she stated.

She further urged people to abide by the party decision until a new position is taken.

“Let us keep it like that for the time being,” she stated.

Respect for privacy

Ida also warned against attempts to exert undue influence on the family, urging that the family be allowed to deal with their issues and make private decisions.

“I also want to ask people to leave us alone to deal with our own issues. What has just happened to us is very painful,” she added.

Ida’s remarks come after Opiyo Wandayi similarly implored that Oburu be accorded his respect as the bona fide party leader. Wandayi stated that only through party unity will they continue the legacy of their departed leader, Raila Odinga.

Peaceful and united

“Here in Luo, all political pilgrimages end at Odinga’s home. When Raila, who was my foremost political mentor, left us prematurely, Oburu Odinga took over the leadership, and we ask that he be accorded the respect,” he stated.

““Baba had a legacy and a dream for our community, which can only be realised by us remaining united,” he stated. “The only lasting tribute we can pay to Raila Odinga and now Beryl, his sister, is for us to remain united as a people and as a party.