Minute of silence marks ODM’s first meeting since Raila’s passing
By Faith Lagat, October 27, 2025The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) held its first Central Committee meeting since the death of its iconic leader, Raila Odinga, marked by a poignant minute of silence.
The ODM Party shared the moment via its official X account, stating, “Members of the Central Committee observed a minute of silence in remembrance of our departed Party Leader the late @RailaOdinga.”
This solemn tribute reflects the party’s ongoing mourning as it navigates a significant leadership transition following Raila’s passing, a figure who shaped Kenyan opposition politics for nearly five decades.
Oburu Oginga’s first official engagement as Ag. party leader
The meeting, held at the party’s headquarters, Chungwa House, led by the Acting Party Leader Oburu Odinga, marked his first official engagement at the helm.
The ODM further noted, “This is the first meeting of the Central Committee to be held since the death of the PL. Ag. PL Dr. Oburu Oginga.”
Oburu, Raila’s elder brother and Siaya Senator, visited Chungwa House earlier that day, marking a pivotal moment as he settled into his new role.
The visit included a tour of his office and a brief meeting with key officials, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Executive Director Ong’wen, and Deputy Organising Secretary Ruth Odinga.
An ODM X post captured the event, stating, “Ag. Party Leader @dr_oburuoginga visited Chungwa House this morning. He had a feel of his new office and held a brief meeting with the SG @edwinsifuna, ED @ongwen, and Dep. Org. Sec. @RuthOdinga42. Karibu Mhe. Dkt. Oburu Oginga #TukoTayari,” accompanied by images of the handover.
Calls for unity
This leadership transition follows a formal endorsement by ODM delegates from Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay counties on October 24, 2025.
The unanimous backing highlighted Oburu’s experience and capability to lead, with the party stating, “ODM delegates from the Counties of Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homabay have this afternoon endorsed the Senator of Siaya County, Oburu Odinga, to succeed our departed Leader, Raila Odinga, as the party leader.” During a delegates’ meeting at Opoda Farm in Bondo on October 26, 2025, ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga urged youthful politicians to avoid rushing for leadership, emphasising unity under Oburu’s guidance.