ODM leaders warn against younger politicians positioning themselves as Raila successors
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders have cautioned against the scramble for the Luo community’s political kingship following the demise of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was the party’s long-serving leader.
The ODM delegates, who on Friday converged at the late Odinga’s home in Opoda Farm, Bondo, stated that there is no vacuum to be filled.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who is also ODM chairperson, said that the Luo community remains united and does not require a hurried succession process.
She told leaders to avoid divisive politics, warning that premature jostling for the “Luo kingpin” role could fracture the longstanding unity of the community.
Governor Wanga affirmed that Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, who has taken over the ODM party leadership mantle from his late brother Raila Odinga, is well-positioned to also guide the community politically. She called for solidarity across Luo Nyanza, stressing that unity is paramount during this transitional period.
“The leadership of Luo Nyanza has no vacuum because once Dr. Oburu has taken over the mantle of the party leadership, he is the same person who will guide the Luo community going forward,” she said.
Ruaraka Member of Parliament T.J. Kajwang’ issued a pointed warning, seemingly directed at Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. Kajwang’ warned against younger politicians attempting to position themselves as successors for personal gain.
“Our father Raila has left us in good hands, I can see the chairman of the Luo Council of Elders here and I know we shall continue to speak in one voice,” added Kajwang’.
Kajwang’ termed efforts by said younger politicians as moves that risk undermining the cohesion of the Luo community.
The sentiments were echoed by Migori County MP Fatuma Mohamed, who asked youthful legislators to show respect and rally behind Dr. Oburu Oginga, who she described as the rightful figure to provide political direction in the post-Raila era.
“ODM remained strong because the late Raila Odinga kept us united. So we must continue with that unity because the moment we start infighting and unnecessary supremacy battles, then the party may be polarized,” Fatuma Mohamed remarked.
Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu argued that the world is watching how the Luo community navigates this moment and stressed the importance of maintaining unity, noting that Raila Odinga had long been a symbol of togetherness for the region.
On his part, Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ argued that there is no need for internal wrangles or leadership contests.
He stated that as far as they are concerned, the community of Luo Nyanza has not been orphaned by Raila’s demise because they still have a father whom they can run to and who is full of wisdom – Dr. Oburu.
