NAIROBI, Kenya — Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga on Sunday, February 1, hosted a meeting of the Jaramogi family in what allies described as a show of unity amid ongoing political tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
In an update shared after the meeting, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga described the gathering as a moment of togetherness, reflection, and appreciation of family bonds.
“Today, the Jaramogi family came together in unity and reflection, graciously hosted by my uncle, Dr. Oburu Oginga Odinga. Family, heritage, and purpose. Grateful for family moments like these,” Winnie said.
The meeting was attended by several members of the Odinga family, including Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, Wenwa Akinyi, and Rosemary Odinga.
The gathering came just days after Winnie dismissed claims of a rift within the Odinga family, amid speculation that disagreements within ODM had spilled into personal conflict.
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, January 27, Winnie insisted that no family feud exists and that political differences are deliberately kept separate from family affairs.
“There is no family feud. If there was a family feud, I doubt he would tell me that in public. He is a funny guy. We discuss household matters at home, but party matters are not to be discussed at home,” she said.
Winnie emphasized that Oburu fully supports her right to hold independent political views and maintained that their relationship remains strong despite differing opinions within the party.
“I believe Oburu would be the first person to defend my right to have different opinions. I love Dr Oburu, he is my only dad. I don’t know why this has become national news. Our family is tight, we have no problems at all,” she added.
She also praised Oburu’s role as ODM’s acting party leader, describing him as a stabilising figure during what she termed a difficult transition period for the party.
“I think Dr Oburu Oginga is a wonderful acting party leader in this transition period. He is steadying the ship. This is not a very easy ship to steady, but he is weathering the storm and has said many times that he is acting transitionally and will make space for other young people,” Winnie said.
Defending Oburu’s long political career, Winnie argued that his legacy should not be undermined by internal party struggles, noting his decades of service and loyalty.
“My uncle has lived a life of determination, strength, and loyalty. Winnie Odinga would be the last person who, at his age of 82, would allow his legacy to be besmirched by a political tug of war. We are very happy with him being in the position that he is; he is certainly the best person for that role,” she said.
The family meeting is seen by observers as a symbolic gesture aimed at projecting unity at a time when ODM continues to navigate leadership and succession debates following recent internal realignments.
