Political Succession and Regional Unity at Forefront

In his first major public event as the new leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Dr. Oburu Oginga on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, presided over a memorial ceremony for his late brother, Raila Amolo Odinga, in Homa Bay County. The event, taking place less than a month after Mr. Odinga was laid to rest, is being viewed by political analysts as a significant moment for the party, combining solemn remembrance with the strategic consolidation of its future leadership.

The choice of Homa Bay, a bastion of ODM support, rather than the family's ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, is politically symbolic. It underscores an effort by the new party leadership to project unity across the wider Nyanza region as it navigates the post-Raila era. The ceremony brought together a host of national and regional leaders, offering a platform to both honour Mr. Odinga's legacy and publicly align with the party's new direction under his brother.

A Nation in Mourning, A Party in Transition

Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics for decades, passed away on October 15, 2025, while receiving medical treatment in India. [10] His death prompted a period of national mourning, culminating in a state funeral and his burial at the family's Kang'o ka Jaramogi homestead in Bondo on October 19, 2025. [10, 14] The site, which also houses the mausoleum of their father and Kenya's first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, has since become a focal point for national reflection, attracting visitors from across the country. [11, 12]

In the wake of his brother's death, Dr. Oburu Oginga, a veteran politician and Siaya Senator, was confirmed as the interim ODM party leader. [6] During the state funeral, he accepted the mantle, acknowledging the immense challenge of stepping into his brother's shoes while vowing to steer the party forward. [23] This memorial in Homa Bay is his first significant test in rallying the party's base and charting a course towards the 2027 general elections.

The Legacy of a Political Dynasty

The memorial draws on a long tradition within the Odinga family of commemorating its patriarchs. The annual anniversary of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga's death in 1994 has for years been a key event on Kenya's political calendar, used to reflect on the nation's struggle for multi-party democracy. [4, 13] By holding a similar event for Raila, the party reinforces a narrative of continuity, linking the democratic ideals of the father to the son. [10] Both men are remembered as central figures in the country's 'second liberation'. [12]

Jaramogi, who died in January 1994, was a pivotal figure in the independence movement and a lifelong champion of opposition politics. [2, 8] The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo is a national monument managed by the National Museums of Kenya, housing artifacts from his life and Luo cultural history. [5, 7] Raila Odinga's burial next to his father was seen as a symbolic union of two generations of Kenya's struggle for reform. [10, 12]

Future of ODM and Nyanza Politics

Behind the public displays of grief and unity, a political realignment is underway. The memorial service provides a stage for key figures within ODM, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who is also the party's National Chairperson, to demonstrate their loyalty and influence. [6] Discussions about Raila's succession have been simmering, with leaders like Ms. Wanga and former National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi considered potential inheritors of his political influence in the region. [6]

Leaders from across the political spectrum have paid tribute to Mr. Odinga's legacy of fighting for justice and inclusivity. Martha Karua, his 2022 running mate, recently vowed to continue the work they started together, emphasizing that a true tribute to his memory would be to fight corruption and serve citizens faithfully. [16] The speeches and political messaging at the Homa Bay event are being closely watched for indications of ODM's future strategy. Dr. Oburu has previously stated that the party must be in government come 2027, signalling a pragmatic and ambitious path forward. [6] This memorial, therefore, is more than a remembrance; it is a declaration of resilience and a critical step in shaping the future of one of Kenya's largest political movements without its iconic leader.