Ida Odinga, the widow of the late Raila Odinga, was among the invited guests who attended the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Delegates meeting held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Oburu Odinga’s rural home in Bondo.
The gathering was called by the party’s new acting leader, Oburu Odinga, who took over leadership duties temporarily following the passing of Raila Odinga on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
Ida arrived at the venue shortly before the meeting officially began, marking her first public political appearance since her husband’s burial.
The meeting brought together delegates from four counties in the Nyanza region Migori, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Siaya to deliberate on matters concerning the party’s unity and future direction. With the loss of Raila Odinga, who led the ODM for over two decades, the party now faces the challenge of maintaining stability and reaffirming its political influence.
Delegates were expected to discuss how to strengthen the party’s position in its traditional strongholds while exploring ways to expand its reach beyond the region.
This delegates’ meeting comes just days after Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who serves as ODM’s deputy party leader, confirmed that the Central Committee would hold its first official session on Monday, October 27, 2025.
In his statement on Thursday, October 23, Nassir outlined the purpose of the upcoming session, emphasizing that it would focus on three key items crucial for the party’s reorganization and long-term strategy.
The first item on the agenda concerns upcoming by-elections, which ODM views as vital in keeping the party’s unity intact and securing wins in the absence of its longtime leader. Nassir explained that opponents might take advantage of internal divisions, making it important for ODM to present a strong, united front.
The second item will revolve around the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations and the commemoration of Raila Odinga’s 80th birthday.
Party members intend to use the celebrations to reflect on Raila’s political journey and the role he played in shaping Kenya’s democratic landscape.
The third agenda item will focus on evaluating the progress of the 10-point agreement ODM signed with the government. This review aims to assess the implementation of key commitments and ensure accountability among those responsible for executing the agreed policies. Nassir confirmed that Oburu Odinga will preside over this meeting in his acting capacity as party leader.
After the Central Committee session, ODM legislators, governors, and senators are expected to meet to address emerging internal disputes and agree on a unified approach going forward.
According to Nassir, this series of meetings will help the party find stability during the transition and chart a clear path under Oburu’s temporary leadership.
The gatherings are also seen as an effort to safeguard Raila’s legacy by keeping ODM focused on its principles of justice, unity, and democratic reform.
The leadership is seeking to assure supporters that ODM remains intact and ready to continue its mission in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
