Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has assured Kenyans that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party will continue working closely with President William Ruto’s government, even after the passing of party leader Raila Odinga.
Wandayi, who is a long-time ODM member and close ally of the late Raila, spoke from the Odinga family home in Bondo, where leaders and mourners have been gathering to pay their respects.
“Baba has left us on the side of government,” Wandayi said, referring to Raila by his popular nickname. “And that’s where we intend to stay with President William Ruto, through to 2027 and beyond.”
Wandayi’s comments come at a time when the ODM party is navigating a sensitive transition following the loss of its iconic leader.
Despite the grief, Wandayi said Raila left the party in a strong position, aligned with the current administration for the sake of national unity and progress.
“I can say without any doubt we will walk step by step with President Ruto, not just now, but all the way into the future,” he added.
The CS also welcomed the ODM party’s decision to appoint Raila’s elder brother, Dr. Oburu Odinga, as the interim party leader.
Oburu a seasoned politician and current Siaya Senator, was named acting leader shortly after Raila’s passing during an emergency meeting of the party’s top decision-makers.
Wandayi called the move a wise and stabilizing step, praising Oburu’s experience and calm leadership style.
“Oburu has what it takes to lead this party forward. He has the wisdom, the history, and the heart to guide us in this next chapter,” he said.
He went a step further, urging the party to hold a National Delegates Convention soon after Raila’s burial to officially confirm Oburu as the substantive party leader.
“As a life member of ODM, I will be proposing that we meet as soon as possible after Baba’s send-off and formally elect Dr. Oburu as our leader,” Wandayi said.
Oburu’s appointment took effect immediately and he will serve in an interim capacity until a formal decision is made by the party’s leadership structures.
For now, as the ODM family mourns the loss of a man who defined its identity for decades, leaders like Wandayi are stepping forward to assure supporters that the movement Raila built will continue steady, united, and part of the national conversation.