NAIROBI, Kenya — Winnie Odinga, an EALA MP and daughter of the late Raila Odinga, on Sunday led a youth-oriented rally in Kibra, a move political observers are reading as a possible sign of internal realignment within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Speakers during the rally defended estranged ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna from the ongoing onslaught by top leaders.
The rally took place against a backdrop of ongoing party mobilisation and internal discussion following the death of Raila Odinga, Kenya’s veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, who died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while receiving medical treatment in India.
His passing sent shockwaves across the country and marked the end of an era in Kenyan politics.
“Tumeona sura ya baba,” one of the youth leaders said.
Winnie & Junior Odinga at Kamukunji grounds, Kibra.
Winnie’s event in Kibra, historically considered an ODM stronghold, came just days after her uncle, Oburu Oginga, hosted a consultative meeting in the same constituency.
Oburu is in Kakamega, where he is leading a grassroots campaign to fortify ODM’s presence ahead of the 2027 elections and potential power-sharing talks with UDA.
ODM youth who spoke in the rally urged Winnie to step up and be part of the party leadership.
“The timing and focus on youth engagement suggests a generational and strategic message aimed at broadening the party’s appeal,” said one political analyst.
Raila’s death not only left a leadership void within ODM but also triggered wider conversation about the party’s direction, leadership succession and strategy going into a competitive election cycle.
For decades, Raila was a central figure in Kenyan politics — a seasoned campaigner and formidable opposition leader who never won the presidency but remained profoundly influential.
