Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana recounts Raila’s role in women’s empowerment in ODM
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, March 9, 2026Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana has paid glowing tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, recounting how the veteran leader played a crucial role in empowering women within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.
In a video shared on her official X account on Monday, March 9, 2026, the senator has reflected on Odinga’s leadership style, describing him as a champion of inclusivity who deliberately created space for women to rise to leadership positions within the party and the broader political landscape.
“I could not have been here if it were not for Raila Odinga. He looked at me and saw potential in Muslim women. Baba always empowered women, and I call upon the current leadership of the party to take a keen interest in women’s empowerment,” Hamida said.
Kibwana noted that Odinga believed in the ability of women to contribute meaningfully to governance and decision-making, and he consistently encouraged their participation in politics. According to the senator, the late ODM party leader ensured that women were not only present in party structures but were also empowered to take up influential roles.
She further revealed that her own nomination to the Senate under the ODM ticket was a clear demonstration of Odinga’s commitment to uplifting women in leadership. Kibwana said the nomination was particularly significant because it showed the confidence Odinga had in Muslim women and his desire to see them represented in national leadership.
The senator emphasised that the opportunity she received to serve in the Senate reflected Odinga’s broader vision of an inclusive political movement where women from diverse communities could actively participate in shaping the country’s future.
Oburu urged to empower women
At the same time, she called on the current ODM party leader, Oburu Oginga, to uphold and advance the legacy left behind by Odinga. Kibwana urged the party leadership to continue prioritising the empowerment of women and ensuring that they remain at the centre of the party’s leadership structures.
Odinga led ODM from its formation until his death in October 2025, and he was widely regarded as a key figure in Kenya’s democratic struggles and a defender of marginalised groups.
Kibwana said continuing to uplift women within the party would be one of the most meaningful ways to honour his legacy and sustain the inclusive leadership principles he championed.