Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders have called for calm and unity within the Luo community, warning against the growing scramble for political dominance following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, the party’s long-serving leader.
During a meeting on Friday at the late Odinga’s Opoda Farm home in Bondo, ODM delegates emphasized that there is no leadership vacuum in the community and urged politicians to avoid divisive succession politics.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who also serves as ODM’s national chairperson, said the Luo community remains united under the current leadership structure and cautioned against hasty political maneuvering.
“The leadership of Luo Nyanza has no vacuum because once Dr. Oburu has taken over the mantle of party leadership, he is the same person who will guide the Luo community going forward,” Wanga said.
Governor Wanga affirmed that Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, Raila’s elder brother and newly designated ODM leader, is well-suited to steer both the party and the community through this transitional period.
Ruaraka MP T.J. Kajwang’ also warned against younger politicians attempting to capitalize on Raila’s death for personal political gain, a comment perceived as directed toward Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
“Our father Raila has left us in good hands. I can see the chairman of the Luo Council of Elders here, and I know we shall continue to speak in one voice,” Kajwang’ said, adding that attempts to claim the “Luo kingpin” mantle could threaten the community’s long-standing cohesion.
His sentiments were echoed by Migori County MP Fatuma Mohamed, who urged young leaders to show humility and rally behind Dr. Oburu.
“ODM remained strong because the late Raila Odinga kept us united. We must continue with that unity, because if we start supremacy battles, the party could easily become divided,” Fatuma noted.
Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu emphasized that the nation is watching how the Luo community handles this moment, saying it is crucial to uphold the unity Raila championed for decades.
Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ reinforced that the community is not politically “orphaned” by Raila’s passing.
“As far as we are concerned, the Luo community still has a father Dr. Oburu who carries wisdom and guidance for our people,” he said.
ODM leaders concluded the meeting with a unified call for solidarity and discipline, reaffirming that the Luo community’s political future remains secure under collective leadership rather than rivalry.
