Oburu Odinga is the acting ODM party leader – Robert Alai
By Kiprono Keileb, October 15, 2025The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has entered a delicate period of transition following the death of its long-serving party leader, Raila Amolo Odinga.
As the nation continues to mourn the former Prime Minister, who shaped Kenya’s political landscape for decades, ODM members and supporters are now rallying around a familiar name in the Odinga family: Oburu Odinga.
In a post shared on X on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, ODM member and Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai stated that Oburu Odinga will take over the party leadership.
Watch: End of an era as Raila Odinga passes away
“The acting Party Leader now that Baba Raila Odinga is resting, is Oburu Odinga,” he stated. He went on to caution Kenyans against misinformation, noting that some people are not mature enough in politics. “Don’t listen to the people who are still in political adolescence,” he stated
The statement comes at a time when the party and the nation are grappling with the loss of a man who defined opposition politics and championed democratic reform for more than four decades.
Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother and Siaya Senator, is expected to guide the party through this mourning period as the leadership navigates the emotional and political weight of losing its founder.
ODM, a party deeply rooted in Kenya’s democratic story, now faces the task of preserving its unity and values, ideals that Raila built through years of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
Also watch: Raila Odinga as Prime Minister: Achievements and friction with Kibaki
The mention of Oburu as acting party leader signals an attempt to maintain order and continuity as party structures prepare for a longer-term succession conversation.
Alai’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions among ODM supporters, many expressing both grief and resolve to keep the movement alive.
To them, Raila Odinga was not just a politician but a symbol of courage and reform, a leader who inspired generations to believe in democracy and fairness.
As the mourning period continues, the focus within ODM remains on honouring Raila’s legacy, holding the party together, and ensuring a smooth transition.
While emotions run high, Robert Alai’s declaration points to a sense of direction, that even in sorrow, the movement must stand united under leadership, however temporary, to carry forward the vision Raila Odinga championed throughout his lifetime.