Kisumu County Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o, has expressed his gratitude to Raila Odinga following his appointment as the acting Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader.

In a statement on Thursday, September 12, 2024, Nyong’o extended his appreciation to both Odinga and the ODM Central Management Committee for entrusting him with the leadership role.

“I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our leader, Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, for entrusting me with the leadership of the ODM Party. I equally thank the ODM Central Management Committee for giving me the responsibility of serving as Acting Party Leader,” Nyong’o stated.

Nyong’o’s gratitude

He described the appointment as a significant honour for both himself and the people of Kisumu County, as Raila steps aside to focus on his campaign for the African Union Commission Chairmanship.

Nyong’o also assured ODM supporters that the party would continue to follow in Raila’s footsteps, promising to strengthen the party during his tenure.

“I deeply appreciate the confidence and trust you have in me to oversee the party leadership while Baba attends to his international duties. It is a big honour to the people of Kisumu and myself,” Nyong’o stated.

“To the entire ODM family across the country, I assure you that we will continue to follow in Baba’s footsteps as we strengthen the party and elevate it to even greater heights. Thank you and God bless. Chama iko imara.”

This appointment follows Odinga’s decision to step back from ODM leadership duties to focus on his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, with elections scheduled for February 2025.

Nyong’o role

Nyong’o will serve as the interim leader of the ODM Party, tasked with chairing the Central Management Committee, one of the party’s top decision-making bodies, until February next year.

Last month, Odinga expanded the party’s leadership, appointing Governors Simba Arati (Kisii), Abdulswamad Nassir (Mombasa), and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi as deputy party leaders.