NAIROBI, Kenya — Former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has sparked debate following comments suggesting that the late Raila Odinga’s death may mark a turning point for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and its relationship with the government.
In a post shared by Spice FM on X (formerly Twitter), Orwoba claimed that Raila had effectively “left ODM in government” through the 2018 handshake deal with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, an arrangement she said gave him “full control” over key political and development agendas.
“Raila Odinga left ODM in government through the handshake, where he had full control of the arrangement. Now that he’s gone, many, including Sifuna, seem relieved to step away, as even the 10-point agenda Baba fought for was never implemented,” Orwoba said.
Her remarks come amid growing political introspection within ODM and the Azimio la Umoja coalition following Raila’s passing. Several party figures have been vocal about the need to “redefine ODM’s future,” signaling potential ideological shifts.
Observers say Orwoba’s comments reflect wider conversations about the handshake’s legacy — a deal that brought political calm but also blurred opposition lines and slowed down key reforms promised in its 10-point unity agenda.
ODM leaders, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, have yet to formally respond to Orwoba’s statement. However, insiders suggest the party is preparing for a period of restructuring and reflection as it navigates a post-Raila political era.
Political analysts say the remarks underscore Kenya’s shifting power dynamics, as leaders reassess alliances and strategies in the wake of Raila’s absence from the national stage.
