Oburu Odinga Installed as Luo Community Leader at Luo Piny Festival
Oburu Odinga has been officially installed as the leader of the Luo community following a traditional coronation ceremony in Migori on 17 December, during the fifth edition of the Luo Piny Festival.
The ceremony, which was attended by President William Ruto and presided over by the community’s spiritual custodian, the Ker, marks a pivotal moment for the Luo people. Oburu Odinga, elder brother to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, succeeds his brother in a role that holds both cultural and political significance.
In his acceptance speech, Oburu vowed to lead with integrity, unity, and purpose, pledging to serve the community with humility. He was crowned with the feathered crown, a symbol of authority, and presented with a spear and shield, representing his role as the protector of the people.
A whisk, symbolising peace, was also given to him. As part of the ritual, Oburu performed the ceremonial spear dance while chanting Jowi, a tradition meant to signify communal strength.
The presence of President Ruto added a political dimension to the event. In a symbolic gesture, the Ker also crowned him as a leader among the Luo, presenting him with similar regalia. This marks the second time Ruto has been honoured in this way, following a similar ceremony earlier in the year in Siaya County.
