NAIROBI, Kenya- Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga is often introduced as the elder brother of the late Raila Odinga.
But his own story stretches from studying economics in Moscow to serving in government, writing a family memoir and taking charge of one of Kenya’s biggest political parties.
Oginga studied at People’s Friendship University in Moscow, where he earned bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral qualifications in economics.
Before entering national politics, he worked as an economist in the Ministry of Planning and National Development from 1981 to 1994.
He had earlier served as an elected councillor in Kisumu Municipality.
His parliamentary career began in 1994, when he became MP for Bondo.
He later served as an Assistant Minister for Finance, returned to Parliament as a nominated MP and represented Kenya in the East African Legislative Assembly.
He was elected Siaya senator in 2022.
A memoir about life in a political family
In 2021, Oginga published his autobiography, In the Shadow of My Father.
The book recounts his family life, political career and Kenya’s history through his own experiences.
Its title reflects the imposing presence of his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first vice-president and a central figure in the country’s independence-era politics.
The memoir also includes a difficult episode from his school years. In accounts of the book, Oginga described living with a former teacher who made him cook, wash clothes and go hungry.
It’s a striking detail from a childhood often discussed mainly through the public lives of his father and younger brother.
Oginga has also spoken about the influence of his mother, Mary Juma.
He recalled her as the stricter parent, saying she disciplined her children more harshly than Jaramogi, who preferred dialogue.
He said she helped instil honesty and discipline in the family.
The brother behind the political partnership
The relationship between Oginga and Raila was close as well as political.
In a tribute published after Raila’s death, Oginga described his brother as his close friend, business partner and confidant.
He said they were just over a year apart in age.
That bond now sits alongside a major change in Oginga’s public role.
After Raila died in October 2025, Oginga took over as acting leader of the Orange Democratic Movement.
ODM delegates confirmed him as party leader in March 2026.
Now, as ODM’s leader and Siaya’s senator, Oburu Oginga is carrying his own political story into a new chapter.
