The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party will hold its first Central Committee meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, following the passing of party leader Raila Odinga.

The meeting will be chaired by acting ODM leader, Senator Oburu Odinga, who was appointed to the role by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on October 16.

Speaking on Thursday, October 23, ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir explained the purpose of the meeting.

“Kuna mkutano ambao tutakuwa nao siku ya Jumatatu ambao ni mkutano wa kwanza ambao kwamba Daktari Oburu Odinga atakuwa ni acting Party Leader,” he said. This marks the first time Oburu Odinga will lead the party in an acting capacity since Raila’s death.

Nassir outlined the three main items on the agenda. The first point focuses on upcoming by-elections, which the party views as critical to maintaining unity and securing victories against opponents who hope to exploit internal divisions.

“Agenda ya kwanza ni kuhusiana na maswala ya by elections ambazo zinakuja. Maadui zetu sasa hivi wanatamani tuweze kusambaratika ili tusiweze kuhakikisha tumekuwa na ushindi.“

The second agenda item will focus on ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations and commemorating Raila Odinga’s 80th birthday achievements.

“Agenda ya pili tumesema ile sherehe ya ODM ya miaka ishirini itakuwa sasa pia ni kusherekea Baba miaka 80 na amabayo ameweza kuyafanya katika hii jimbo la Mombasa.“

Tracking party’s ten-point

The third agenda item will assess progress on the 10-point agenda signed with the government. This review will ensure accountability and track the implementation of the party’s agreed priorities.

“Agenda ya tatu ni kuweza kusema kuwa tunataka kujua yale mambo kumi ambayo tuliweza kuyaweka na wale ambao tuliwaambia waanze kufuatilia na serikali waje kutupatia repoti hili limefika hapa, ili limefika hapa. Na ndio njia ambayo tunaweza kusonga.”

Nassir added that after the Central Committee meeting, ODM MPs, Senators, and Governors will convene with party leaders to discuss internal conflicts and agree on a unified way forward.

The meeting comes a week after Raila Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025, following a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India. He was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County.

The meeting on Monday will set the direction for ODM in this transitional period, ensuring the party honours Raila’s legacy while addressing pressing political and organisational matters.