ODM power rifts take centre stage at Raila's sister burial

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and ODM deputy leader Godfrey Ototsi during the funeral of Beryl Achieng Odinga at Nyamira Primary School in Bondo.[Michael Mute Standard]

Supremacy battles within the ODM party played out openly as friends, relatives and political leaders gathered at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi to bury Raila Odinga’s youngest sister, Beryl Achieng.

Subtle political undertones from key speakers — coupled with cheers and jeers from sections of the crowd — signalled that the contest to fill Raila’s big political shoes is only beginning.

Although ODM party leader Oburu Oginga had initially opted to avoid politics during the ceremony, he was compelled to reassure the ODM fraternity that there was no leadership vacuum following Raila’s death.

“I am now the party leader, and I will ensure that we remain united,” Oburu said, adding that there was no need to revisit the matter.

In her remarks, Raila’s youngest daughter, Winnie Odinga, urged the party to safeguard its unity, saying members were seeking direction. She acknowledged Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and noted that unity requires embracing even those with differing views.

“There are those who think we are young and do not know a lot. We know a lot — what we need is space and direction. And if we are talking about unity, it means allowing even those you don’t like,” she said.

Earlier, Ida Odinga was forced to intervene to calm a group of youths who heckled speakers, terming the behaviour unfortunate.

The family also criticised politicians they accused of hiring groups to cheer for them as they entered the burial venue.

Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ cautioned against early power struggles over the region’s political leadership, warning that such contests could divide the Luo community.

“As of now, the cultural leadership of the Luo community rests with the Luo Council of Elders chairman Odungi Randa. We will not allow ourselves to be divided,” Kajwang’ said.

Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osotsi admitted that conversations about ODM’s future had intensified but insisted the party remained firm.

“We may appear shaken by recent storms, but we will reorganise and remain the strongest party,” Osotsi said.

Suba South MP Millie Odhiambo urged ODM to remain grounded in the will of the people, saying the party’s strength has always stemmed from listening to wananchi.

“Our late party leader Raila Odinga always listened to the people. The party must continue doing so,” she said.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the Luo community owes a great debt to the Odinga family, adding that the community’s political journey will always lead back to Jaramogi’s home. He also called for respect for the new ODM leader, Oburu Oginga.

“We want unity of purpose as our final tribute to the late Odinga. That is the surest way to cement his legacy,” Wandayi said.

The ceremony was attended by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, several MPs — including Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Babu Owino (Embakasi East), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), and Moses Omondi (Ugunja) — and governors James Orengo (Siaya), Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), Ochillo Ayacko (Migori) and Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir.

Wamalwa called for justice for victims of the recent anti-government protests through the full implementation of the NADCO report.

“Let us follow the Constitution and allow our institutions to work,” he said.

Musyoka echoed the message, vowing to push for leadership anchored on Raila’s vision.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga emphasised unity as the greatest honour to Raila’s legacy.

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir, who is also ODM’s deputy party leader, said unity was crucial as the party prepares for 2027.

“Our value lies in our unity and strength. Let us remain united as we prepare for 2027, because no party is formed to stay in opposition,” he said, adding that ODM will either form the next government or be part of it.

Siaya Governor James Orengo reminded leaders that the Luo community had previously been in government and must continue defending justice and the rule of law.

“Let us listen to what our people are saying. That is the only way to determine the direction we should take,” Orengo said, urging leaders to engage young people more.

ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga reaffirmed that there is no leadership vacuum in the party.