ODM leader Oburu Oginga has told off a section of the party that is doubting his ability to steer the political outfit.
At the ODM 20th anniversary celebrations, some members questioned the current leadership's capability to steer the party under the current arrangement with President William Ruto's government.
Specifically, EALA MP Winnie Odinga questioned his suitability to lead the party.
Speaking during the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa, Winnie argued that her late father, Raila, possessed the unique skill set required to guide ODM through its partnership with Ruto’s UDA.
She maintained that no current leader matched his calibre and proposed that the party convene a National Delegates Conference (NDC) to allow members to formally choose new leadership.
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"In matters concerning the broad-based government, ODM placed its trust in one individual, Raila Amolo Odinga. That relationship is complex. So now, as others step forward to manage it, we must ask: are they truly equipped for the task? This isn’t for me to decide, but for ODM members. That’s why I’m calling for an NDC, to let the people decide who should lead," she said.
In a swift response, Oburu defended his readiness to take over where Raila left off, citing his long-standing involvement in his brother’s political life and deep understanding of his strategies.
"I lived with Raila for 80 years. In all that he did and where he went, I was always there. And there is no single day I betrayed my brother," he said.
Oburu emphasised that despite Raila’s towering presence in national politics, he had always been available to offer guidance as his elder sibling. He added that he respected Raila’s leadership and legacy, regardless of their age gap.
Clearly affected by Winnie’s remarks, Oburu said he intended to speak with her privately to address her concerns. Nonetheless, he pledged to lead ODM with the same resolve and strategic clarity that defined Raila’s tenure.
"I heard my child Winnie saying that Raila was in the broad-based government and that we should look for a new leader to steer the party in the broad-based arrangement. I tell her that we will talk with her at home. Meanwhile, I will work like Raila in this new post that you have given me. I have taken the reins of power, and I won't fear anything, and I will purpose to achieve all that Raila envisioned," he said.
Oburu urged ODM members to rally behind him as he takes charge of the party’s future.
