Former Cabinet Minister Kipruto Arap Kirwa has weighed in on the future of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after the passing of its party leader, Raila Odinga.

Speaking to a local TV station on Saturday, October 18, 2025, the politician acknowledged that the party had managed to weather storms due to Raila’s all-inclusive leadership, a facet he opines the new leadership would need to embrace.

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“Raila’s style of leadership will have to take place for the party to survive. Raila ensured the party had reached out to all,” he stated.

The opposition -allied politician recounted how Raila dealt with party officials and members such as Secretary General Edwin  Sifuna and others who took a dissenting opinion against the party’s stance.

Kirwa further opined that ODM will need to draw lessons from Raila’s leadership and desist from rushing into pacts and coalitions without enough consultations.

“The party needs to take some time and reflect. They should not accept external influence. The decision and changes they make will need to be a result of their own internal dynamic and not from being pressured by external factors,” he added.

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While mourning the departed leader, Kirwa stressed the need for leaders to be genuine and responsible when vested with responsibility by the people.

He observed that Raila Odinga was a foremost example of virtue.

His remarks come after the party installed Raila’s brother Oburu Odinga’s as its new party leader following Raila’s death.

In a statement released on Thursday, October 16, 2025, the ODM National Executive Committee (NEC) confirmed that the appointment was made unanimously and takes effect immediately

The change came as the party embarked on a period of transition, while seeking continuity in leadership during the time of national mourning.

Oburu Oginga, a veteran legislator and longtime member of ODM, would be tasked with providing steady guidance to the party as it navigates both internal and national political matters.