Party Stalwart Addresses Rising Political Temperatures

NAIROBI, KENYA – Dr. Oburu Oginga, the acting party leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has publicly addressed several contentious issues within the party, focusing on the Nairobi gubernatorial ticket sought by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, the role of Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, and the sensitive matter of Luo Nyanza's political succession. Speaking during an interview on Ramogi TV on the evening of Tuesday, 28 October 2025, Dr. Oginga sought to reassure party members and manage escalating political ambitions.

Babu Owino's Gubernatorial Bid and Party Nominations

In a direct message to the ambitious Embakasi East legislator, Dr. Oginga affirmed that the ODM party ticket for the high-stakes Nairobi gubernatorial race is attainable for any loyal member who wins the party primaries. He dismissed speculation that the party might sideline Owino, stating, “I do not know why he believes he cannot be given the ODM ticket to vie for Nairobi Governor. I do not think there can be any reason to deny him the ticket if he wins the nominations.” Dr. Oginga emphasized the party's commitment to a transparent and competitive nomination process, urging all hopefuls to contest openly. “Anyone who wants the party ticket in the Nairobi Governor race should just declare and square it out openly among each other… let nobody run away because they think they will be denied a chance,” he stated. The assurance comes as recent polls, such as one by the Centre for African Progress (CAP) released on 14 October 2025, show Babu Owino as a leading contender for the seat, with 36 per cent support among registered voters. Dr. Oginga also revealed he has been actively trying to contact Owino to offer these reassurances personally.

Sifuna’s Position and Party Discipline

Addressing the position of ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, who has faced criticism from some party members for his outspoken nature, Dr. Oginga offered a firm vote of confidence. He confirmed that Sifuna's role is secure and that he remains a crucial part of the party's leadership. “Sifuna is the one who read out the resolutions of the party after our meeting. I have spoken to him, and he has no problem,” Dr. Oginga clarified. While acknowledging the Nairobi Senator's youthful restlessness, he maintained that any perceived missteps would be handled internally through party mechanisms. “As a young person, sometimes he can become restless and go a little overboard, but he is with us and he will stay with us. There's nothing he has done to warrant us removing him from the party,” he added, effectively quelling calls for Sifuna's ouster.

The Question of Luo Nyanza Succession

On the widely debated topic of who will succeed the late Raila Odinga as the political kingpin of the Luo community, Dr. Oginga was categorical that such leadership is not appointed or inherited but earned. He stated that there is no formal process for electing a kingpin and that a natural leader will emerge over time. This stance aligns with historical precedent in the region's politics and serves to temper the ambitions of those positioning themselves for the role. In the interview, Dr. Oginga suggested that it is time for a new generation of leaders, those mentored by Raila Odinga, to step up, rather than his own contemporaries. His comments are seen as a strategic move to guide the succession conversation without endorsing any single individual, thereby preserving party unity during a delicate transition period.

Implications for Kenya's Political Landscape

Dr. Oginga's pronouncements are of significant national importance as ODM navigates its future. By guaranteeing a fair nomination process, the party aims to prevent the kind of fallout that has historically led to independent candidacies and split votes, which could be critical in the 2027 elections. His defence of Sifuna signals a desire for stability in the party's administrative wing, while his cautious approach to the Nyanza succession question seeks to avoid a premature and divisive power struggle. As the acting leader, Dr. Oginga's efforts to project unity and adherence to democratic principles are a clear attempt to consolidate the party's base and position it as a formidable force in the run-up to the next electoral cycle.