Senior politicians inside and outside ODM, many of them young, have begun secret strategies to vie for the political legacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga following his death. The party's NEC appointed Oburu Odinga as interim leader, amid intensifying struggles in Nyanza, Western, and Coast regions. Figures like Gladys Wanga and Babu Owino have emerged among those seeking the position.
Following Raila Odinga's death, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faces a significant leadership vacuum. The National Executive Committee (NEC) swiftly appointed his brother, Dr. Oburu Odinga, as interim leader until a permanent one is elected. ODM Deputy Leader Abdulswamad Nassir stated, “Raila's death has left a huge gap, not just in ODM... but also in the Nyanza region.”
While Oburu leads temporarily, a new generation of leaders including ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga, MP Babu Owino, Ministers John Mbadi and Opiyo Wandayi, along with Raila's children Winnie and Raila Jr., are vying for his legacy. Winnie Odinga, an East African Legislative Assembly member, signaled her intent to return home and continue her father's struggles during the funeral in Bondo, saying, “Your Excellency... I am ready to come back home.”
Intense struggles have escalated in Nyanza, Western, and Coast regions, with figures like Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Ali Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, and even President William Ruto aiming to control Raila's influence. At the Sunday funeral, Ruto pledged, “I assure ODM members that we will support you... I will not allow anyone to toy with ODM.” Other leaders like Simba Arati and Godfrey Osotsi are also eyeing opportunities.
Experts like Professor Gitile Naituli note that Nyanza requires leaders with the fire to maintain unity, while Willis Otieno adds that filling Raila's gap is a major challenge. Interior Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo is seen as a potential bridge between the government and the region.