The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has confirmed Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga as the new party leader, marking a key transition following the death of the late Raila Odinga earlier this month.

In a press statement issued after a Central Committee meeting held on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Chungwa House in Nairobi, the party’s top decision-making organ confirmed the resolution, urging members across the country to support Oburu as he steers the movement through this challenging period.

“That we endorse Hon. Dr Oburu Oginga as the new Party Leader and urge the party rank and file to accord him all the necessary support and cooperation to enable him to guide the party through this difficult time,” the statement read in part.

The Central Committee also expressed gratitude to President William Ruto, government officials, and Kenyans for the support extended during the funeral of the late Raila Odinga, describing it as a send-off befitting a true global statesman.

Oburu, who has served in several public positions including Assistant Minister for Finance and Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), becomes the second person to lead ODM since its formation in 2005. He previously served as the party’s acting leader following Raila’s death, after being appointed by the National Executive Committee (NEC) on October 16.

Honouring Raila’s enduring legacy

During the meeting, the committee also resolved that the party would continue to uphold Raila Odinga’s legacy of peace, democracy, and inclusion. ODM committed to maintaining its national outlook and to avoiding internal divisions.

The party announced that memorial services for the late leader will be held in several counties, including Magarini in Kilifi on November 2 and 3, and Homa Bay and Migori on November 5 and 6. These will allow supporters across the country to celebrate Raila’s legacy and pay their respects.

ODM further confirmed that its 20th anniversary celebrations, dubbed ODM@20, will take place from November 14 to 16 in Mombasa. The events will include activities aimed at strengthening unity and renewing the movement’s commitment to its founding principles.

The Central Committee also used the session to call on the national government to release funds owed to political parties, saying ODM is owed billions in remittances under the Political Parties Fund.

“Finally, I wish to appeal to the National Government to address the constitutional gap in political party funding, which has seen ODM owed billions in remittances under the Political Parties Fund.”