Following the passing of ODM leader Raila Odinga, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has declared his commitment to unifying the party. Amidst earlier speculation about his loyalty, Sifuna now vows to preserve ODM as Raila's legacy.

• Edwin Sifuna, the Secretary-General, pledged to keep the ODM party together "whatever it takes."
• The declaration was made after Raila Odinga's passing on Wednesday, October 15.
• Other key figures like Raila's sister Ruth Odinga, Deputy Leader Simba Arati, and Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina also echoed calls for ODM unity.
• Sifuna previously controversial for questioning an ODM–government MoU, now emphasizes unity to prevent the party’s downfall.
• Deputy Party leader Abdulswamad Sherriff Nassir stated ODM would “either be in government or be the government” by 2027.

The recent death of Kenyan political giant Raila Amollo Odinga has triggered a battle for succession within his Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party and a broader discussion on the future of Kenyan politics without his towering presence.

• Raila Odinga’s death has highlighted a significant succession gap within the ODM, as no single figure is seen as able to fill his unique role.
• Dr. Oburu Oginga, Raila's elder brother, has been announced as the interim ODM party leader, with his ability to command similar influence yet to be seen.
• The article emphasizes the need for ODM to transition from a personality-driven movement to a strong institution to ensure its longevity.

The death of Raila Odinga has prompted renewed calls for unity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, with his sister, Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, revealing that party unity was his "dying wish." This comes as the ODM faces potential rifts and a succession debate ahead of the 2027 General Election.

• Ruth Odinga stated that Raila Odinga, the veteran opposition leader, emphasized a need for ODM unity shortly before his death.
• The ODM currently has a working relationship with President William Ruto's government, an arrangement criticized by some members including Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
• Raila Odinga, 80, died of cardiac arrest in Kochi, India, leaving the party at a crossroads regarding its future and legacy.

Raila Odinga's sister, Ruth Odinga, has warned against emerging factions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party following her brother's passing. She emphasized Raila's wish for party unity during his burial ceremony at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, October 19.

• Ruth Odinga stated that Raila's final wish was for ODM to remain a united front.
• She criticized "elements within the party" attempting to lead it against Raila's wishes.
• The warning comes amidst cracks forming within ODM, particularly after Raila's agreement with the Kenya Kwanza government in March 2025.
• Separately, Raila's daughter, Winnie Odinga, subtly expressed willingness to work with President William Ruto's administration.