NAIROBI, Kenya – Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa has congratulated Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga on his confirmation as the new leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), but raised questions over why the top job did not go to one of the party’s other deputy leaders.
The announcement was made on Thursday during a special sitting of the ODM National Governing Council (NGC) in Mombasa, ahead of the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations this weekend.
“While I congratulate my Senate colleague, Sen. Oburu Odinga, on his appointment, I still wonder: among the three current Deputy Party Leaders of ODM, did none of them qualify to climb the ladder?” Karungo posted on his social media platforms.
Oburu formally succeeds his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away last month, marking a significant transition for the party.
As I congratulate my Senate colleague, Sen. Oburu Odinga, on being approved as the ODM Party Leader, my mind still wonders: among the three current Deputy Party Leaders of ODM, did none of them qualify to climb the ladder?
The NGC also confirmed several key appointments:
- Deputy Party Leaders: Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi
- Deputy Organising Secretary: Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga
- Secretary of Political Affairs: Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu
Oburu had been serving in an acting capacity since October 16, following a resolution by the National Executive Council (NEC).
He will formally assume office once the appointments are ratified by the National Delegates Convention (NDC).
The appointments signal a reshuffling aimed at steering ODM into its next phase and consolidating leadership following Raila Odinga’s death, leaving party members and political observers debating the implications of the choices made.
