5 Leaders Vying for ODM Top Spot as Raila Odinga Prepares Exit

The Orange Democratic Party (ODM) is facing a leadership transition as Raila Odinga, who has led the party for over 20 years, prepares to step down.

Odinga’s departure after more than two decades at the helm creates a substantial void, prompting various prominent party figures to position themselves as potential successors. Among the leading contenders is Edwin Sifuna, the current ODM Secretary-General and Nairobi Senator. Despite joining the party relatively recently in 2018, Sifuna has rapidly ascended through the ranks to oversee crucial organizational strategies and operations. His legal background and support from influential party members bolster his credentials, though he has recently deferred his ambitions for a deputy party leader position in the interest of party unity.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati presents another strong candidacy for leadership. Recently appointed as a deputy party leader alongside counterparts from Mombasa and Vihiga, Arati’s political journey from local council elections to his current gubernatorial role showcases his resilience and ambition. His elevation within the party hierarchy underscores the trust placed in his leadership capabilities by fellow members. Siaya Governor James Orengo brings decades of experience within ODM to the succession battle. Once a rival to Odinga, Orengo has become a loyal ally, playing pivotal roles in party activities, including legal representation during contested elections.

With backing from current leadership, including Chairman George Aladwa, Orengo is viewed as a seasoned candidate capable of maintaining the party’s legacy while navigating the evolving political landscape. Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o offers a unique combination of academic expertise and political acumen. As the first ODM Secretary-General and a former interim leader, Nyong’o possesses valuable insights into the party’s internal dynamics. His commitment to regional development has earned him constituent trust, enhancing his profile as a potential successor to Odinga.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga stands out as the sole female contender among the top candidates. Her role as the party’s National Chairperson and her trajectory from student leadership to becoming Homa Bay’s first woman governor highlight her ability to break barriers. Wanga’s candidacy appeals to both advocates of gender representation and traditional party loyalists.