ODM Picks Raila Odinga's Sister Among Top Leadership Changes
The party said the new appointments reflect ODM’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its internal structure ahead of upcoming political activities.
Marvin Chege 
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has named Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, sister to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, as its new Deputy Organising Secretary in a fresh round of leadership changes within the party.
In the same announcement made on Thursday, November 13, ODM confirmed Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as the Party Leader — a role he now holds officially after serving in an interim capacity. Oburu now replaces his brother Raila, who was his predecessor.
“The National Governing Council (NGC) has approved the appointment of Senator Oburu Odinga as the Party Leader of the party. Also approved are DPLs Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi, and Simba Arati as Deputy Party Leaders,” the statement read.
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga at State House, Nairobi on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. /PCS
ODM also confirmed the appointments of Rarieda MP Otiendo Amollo and Turkana South MP Ariko Namoit as Vice Chairpersons, joining Johnes Mwaruma and Christine Lemein in the same role.
Additionally, Rosa Buyu was approved as the Secretary for Political Affairs. The newly appointed officials will officially assume their duties once their positions are ratified by the National Delegates Convention (NDC).
The party said the new appointments reflect ODM’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its internal structure ahead of upcoming political activities.
Oburu Odinga’s confirmation as ODM Party Leader comes just weeks after he took over in an interim capacity, following the death of his brother Raila on Wednesday, October 15, in India.
His formal appointment was made after a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Thursday, October 16, ahead of Raila’s body arriving in Kenya.
ODM had long signaled that Oburu’s elevation was only a matter of timing, having already indicated plans to make the veteran lawmaker the party’s permanent leader.
The announcement comes as the party gears up for its 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa, slated for Friday, November 14, to Sunday, November 16.
The event will bring together senior ODM officials and top national leaders, with President William Ruto expected to grace the ODM Founders’ Dinner on Saturday.
The appointments mark a new phase for ODM as it charts its future without its founding figure, Raila Odinga, while focusing on its partnership with President Ruto and preparations for the 2027 General Election.
