Homa Bay County — Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has reaffirmed his commitment to remaining active in Kenyan politics, even as he pursues a bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship. Odinga’s declaration appears to be a message aimed at quelling speculation about his political future.
Speaking on Sunday at a thanksgiving ceremony for the newly appointed ODM party Chair Gladys Wanga at Ligisa Secondary School, Odinga dismissed any assumptions that his interest in the AUC role would signal his exit from local politics.
“I am confident of winning the AUC seat, but this does not mean I am stepping away from local politics,” Odinga stated, urging Kenyans not to count him out.
Odinga also announced that the ODM grassroots elections would take place on November 27, spanning wards, constituencies, counties, and the national level. He likened the elections to a friendly match, encouraging party members to engage peacefully and avoid divisive tactics.
“The upcoming ODM grassroots elections should be seen as a friendly competition. If you lose, shake hands with the winner. It’s not a do-or-die contest,” he emphasized, assuring transparency in the electoral process.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed echoed Odinga’s sentiments, warning against any premature moves to succeed the ODM leader. “ODM still firmly recognizes Raila Odinga as our leader. We will resist any attempts to replace him,” said Mohammed.
ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga reinforced this stance, asserting that Odinga remains the undisputed leader of the party. “Raila is the only party leader we acknowledge. Let’s focus on strengthening ODM to achieve our political goals,” Wanga remarked.
Kisii Governor and ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati announced that the party would field a presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election. “We are preparing candidates for every elective position, from the presidency to MCA, across the country,” Arati declared.
Acting ODM Party Leader Anyang’ Nyong’o urged party officials to ramp up membership recruitment efforts. “We must focus on registering new members to bolster the party’s strength,” Nyong’o added.
The event was attended by several high-profile leaders, including Homa Bay County ODM Chair Hamilton Orata, Governors Ochillo Ayacko (Migori) and James Orengo (Siaya), as well as MPs Lilian Gogo (Rangwe), Peter Kaluma (Homa Bay Town), Martin Owino (Ndhiwa), Babu Owino (Embakasi East), Eddy Oketch (Migori), and Senator Beatrice Ogola.
The gathering underscored Odinga’s continuing influence and the united front within ODM, despite ongoing discussions about his potential succession.
