ODM top organ approves Oburu’s endorsement as party leader
By Faith Lagat, November 13, 2025The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally advanced its leadership transition with the National Governing Council (NGC) approving the appointment of Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as the new party leader.
Announced on November 13, 2025, during the 20th anniversary of ODM, the decision follows his earlier appointment as acting leader after the death of former party leader Raila Odinga earlier this month.
The move signals a new chapter for ODM, which has been navigating a period of change following the loss of its long-standing leader.
Key leadership appointments
The NGC’s approval also includes several key appointments aimed at reinforcing ODM’s organizational framework.
Deputy Party Leaders (DPLs) Abdulswamad Nassir, Simba Arati, and Godfrey Osotsi were confirmed, bringing diverse regional representation to the leadership team.
Vice Chairpersons Ariko Namoit and Opiyo Amollo were named, while Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga and Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu were appointed as Deputy Organising Secretary and Secretary of Political Affairs, respectively.
These appointments are subject to ratification by the National Delegates Convention (NDC), reflecting the party’s strategic effort to maintain cohesion and operational readiness.
Oburu, a seasoned politician with prior roles as Assistant Minister for Finance and Member of the East African Legislative Assembly, becomes the second person to lead ODM since its formation in 2005. His earlier tenure as acting leader, appointed by the National Executive Committee on October 16, laid the groundwork for this formal transition.
“The National Governing Council (NGC) has approved the appointment of Sen. @DrOburu_O as the party leader of the party. Also approved are DPLs @A_S_Nassir, @SimbaArati & @OsotiOsoti. Others are Vice Chairpersons Dr Ariko Namoit and Dr O. Amollo. Kisumu Woman Rep. @RuthOdinga42 and Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu had their appointments as Dep. Org. Sec. and Sec. of Political Affairs, respectively. They assume office subject to ratification by the National Delegates Convention (NDC). Congratulations to the new leaders #ODMat20,” read the ODM X post.
Honouring Raila’s legacy
The leadership overhaul coincides with memorial events for Raila Odinga across multiple counties, including Magarini in Kilifi and Homa Bay and Migori, allowing supporters to pay tribute to his contributions to peace, democracy, and inclusion.
ODM is also preparing for its 20th anniversary celebrations, ODM@20, scheduled from November 14 to 16 in Mombasa, aimed at reinforcing unity and recommitting to the party’s founding principles.