ODM party leader Oburu Oginga has issued a measured response to Winnie Odinga’s call for clarity on who should steer the party’s engagement with the broad-based government following the passing of former ODM leader Raila Odinga, who previously managed the delicate political arrangement.
Addressing supporters during the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations at the Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa, Oburu acknowledged Winnie’s concerns regarding the future of ODM’s relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration. He noted that although she had proposed that the party consider appointing someone new to oversee the partnership, such discussions would be handled privately within the family.
“My child Winnie says that since Raila is no longer here, we should identify someone else to continue managing this broad-based government relationship. I want to assure her that we will discuss these matters privately at home. I will explain these things to her at home,” Oburu remarked.
Oburu affirmed that, as the newly confirmed party leader, he has fully embraced the responsibilities left behind by Raila Odinga and is committed to safeguarding the party’s interests. He assured members that he would continue to advance ODM’s agenda and execute its mandates with the same resolve Raila demonstrated.
He further pledged to uphold the principles and initiatives championed by the late former party leader, stressing that ODM’s commitments including its role in the broad-based government would proceed without hesitation.
“But this position you have entrusted to me as ODM party leader, I will handle it just as Raila did. I have taken up this shield, and I will not show any fear. I will continue to fulfil everything my brother Raila wanted to accomplish,” Oburu said.
