President William Ruto has come out to plead with the newly installed Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders over keeping the legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga alive.

Speaking during the ODM founders’ dinner in Mombasa on Saturday, November 15, 2025, the head of state asked the leaders not to allow ODM to sink into chaos and arguments.

Further, Ruto asked the leaders to ensure the party is not split due to differing opinions. The president challenged them to remain strong and keep Raila’s spirit burning through a strong political outfit.

“The people who now have the reins of this party, please, I urge you not to undermine the spirit of ODM, now to allow this party to go into arguments, or to fragment this party. This party must stay strong for the sake of Raila Amolo Odinga and his legacy,” Ruto stated.

“I say so being a party leader of a different party today, but I am a strong believer that parties are the foundation of every strong democracy. That is why I have come here to celebrate ODM as a strong party, not a briefcase party, not a regional party, but a national party,” he added.

Approved leaders

On Thursday, November 13, 2025, the party revealed that its National Governing Council (NGC) had confirmed Oburu’s new posting, with Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi, and Simba Arati confirmed as Deputy Party Leaders.

“The National Governing Council (NGC) has approved the appointment of Senator Oburu Odinga as the party leader of the party. Also approved are DPLs Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi, and Simba Arati as Deputy Party Leaders,” ODM stated.

Besides Oburu’s appointment, ODM also made several leadership changes, including the approval of the appointment of Kisumu Woman Rep Ruth Odinga as Deputy Organising Secretary.

The appointments of Otiendo Amollo (Rarieda MP) and Ariko Namoit (Turkana South MP) as vice chairpersons of the party were also approved, and the two will join Johnes Mwaruma and Christine Lemein as vice chairs.

Rosa Buyu’s appointment as Secretary of Political Affairs was also approved, with the group set to formally assume office subject to ratification by the National Delegates Convention (NDC).

Two camps emerge

Ruto sentiments came after cracks emerged in ODM, with Ruto’s broad-based arrangement being at the centre of contention. One faction defended the arrangement, insisting that ODM must commit to it beyond 2027, while another faction called for its review.

The differing sentiments overshadowed ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa.