Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has paid tribute to its late leader, Raila Amolo Odinga, declaring, “On this day, our SHUJAA remains RAILA AMOLO ODINGA. Happy Mashujaa Day,” in a poignant post on X.

The tribute, accompanied by a formal portrait of Odinga with the Kenyan flag in the background, highlights his enduring legacy as a veteran opposition leader and the son of independence hero Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

The message comes a day after Odinga’s burial on October 19, marking a national moment of reflection on his contributions to Kenya’s political landscape.

A private parewell steeped in tradition

The late leader’s life concluded with a private burial ceremony at his family home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County.

Attended by President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, close family members, friends, and military personnel, the event featured a ceremonial military salute with seventeen shots echoing through the air.

Odinga was laid to rest beside his mother, Mary Ajuma Odinga, with his iconic hat and fly whisk placed beside him, symbols of his authority and identity. The ceremony, led by church leaders with hymns, prayers, and a minute of silence, reunited him with the graves of his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his son, Fidel Castro Odinga, in the historic family compound.

Ensuring leadership continuity

Amid national mourning, ODM has moved to maintain leadership continuity. On October 16, the ODM National Executive Committee (NEC) unanimously appointed Siaya County Senator Oburu Oginga as the party’s Acting Leader.

“The National Executive Committee (NEC) has this morning met and unanimously endorsed the designation of the Senator of Siaya County, Oburu Oginga, as the Acting Party Leader. This appointment takes effect immediately,” the party stated. Oburu, a veteran legislator, is tasked with guiding ODM through the transition, maintaining cohesion, and navigating internal and national political challenges.

During Raila’s state funeral at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, President Ruto described him as a mentor and patriot, pledging to uphold his legacy. “Raila Odinga was not just a leader of a political party; he was a leader of a nation,” Ruto said, reinforcing ODM’s central role in Kenya’s future governance.