NAIROBI, Kenya — The Registrar of Political Parties has formally gazetted changes to the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), confirming Dr Oburu Oginga as the party’s new leader.
The changes were published in Gazette Notice No. 1157 dated January 19, 2026, under the Political Parties Act, following a notification by ODM of its intention to restructure its top leadership.
Dr Oginga takes over from the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who led the party from its formation until his death in October 2025.
According to the gazette notice signed by Registrar Anne Nderitu, the changes were effected pursuant to Section 20 (1) (c) of the Political Parties Act, which mandates political parties to formally notify the registrar of any alteration in party officials.
The gazettement also confirms Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir as ODM’s Deputy Party Leader in charge of strategy, replacing Wycliffe Oparanya, while Paul Simba Arati assumes the role of Deputy Party Leader for operations, taking over from former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho.
Godfrey Osotsi has been appointed Deputy Party Leader for policy.
Gladys Nyasuna Wanga, the Homa Bay Governor, has been gazetted as the new National Chairperson, replacing National Assembly Minority Leader John Mbadi.
Mbadi, who previously served as ODM’s national chair, remains a key party figure and currently leads the minority side in Parliament.
Further changes include Paul Otieno Amollo as Deputy Chairperson in charge of strategy and political affairs, replacing Paul Simba Arati, while John Ariko Namoit has been named Deputy Chairperson for operations.
Ahmed Abdullahi takes over as National Organizing Secretary from Ahmed Abdiasalam Ibrahim, while Rozaah Buyu replaces James Opiyo Wandayi as Secretary for Political Affairs.
Ruth Odinga has been appointed Deputy Organizing Secretary, replacing Rozaah Buyu.
Under the law, any person wishing to raise objections to the changes has seven days from the date of publication to submit written representations to the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.
The restructuring comes amid broader political realignments within ODM and the Azimio la Umoja coalition following Raila Odinga’s death, as the party seeks to stabilise its leadership and prepare for the 2027 General Election.
ODM remains one of Kenya’s most influential political parties and a key player in opposition politics, with strong representation in Parliament and county governments.
The Registrar said the changes would take effect unless successfully challenged within the statutory period provided under the Political Parties Act.
