Dr. Oburu Oginga, leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), returned to Kenya on Friday, September 25, after a three-week medical leave in London. His return was confirmed by the party the following day. Dr. Oburu's return coincides with ODM's preparations to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the death of his brother, Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, in India.
To honor Raila Odinga's legacy, ODM has planned a month-long series of events dubbed "Mwezi wa Baba" (Father's Month). The activities will begin on October 2 with a national candle-lighting exercise, followed by meetings and commemorative events in various locations. The events will culminate in a large meeting in Nairobi on October 31. A major commemorative meeting will take place in Kakamega on October 9, while Raila's family will lead events from October 10 to 15, culminating in a memorial service at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo.
During Dr. Oburu's absence in London, ODM's chairman, Gladys Wanga, led the party's activities, including political events in Nyanza. Dr. Oburu's return now gives him the opportunity to lead the party during a period when ODM is facing discussions about its direction after Raila's death. The party is also dealing with debates about its relationship with the government of President William Ruto and leaders who support the opposition.
Raila Odinga's family has established a national committee, led by Prof Adams Oloo, to coordinate the commemorative events. The family stated that the events are for all Kenyans who were touched by Raila's life. The family's plan overlaps with ODM's schedule, which has sparked discussions about the coordination of these events.
Dr. Oburu's return also comes at a time when ODM is facing internal differences regarding its relationship with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) under an inclusive government. Dr. Oburu has been advocating for ODM to work with UDA, while some ODM leaders have taken a different stance. In August, he linked ODM's cooperation with UDA to advancing Raila's agenda.
The ODM party is expected to hold several meetings across the country as part of its "Mwezi wa Baba" events. These meetings will take place in Garissa on October 17, Pwani on October 18 and 19, Kajiado on October 21, and Turkana between October 23 and 25. The events are aimed at celebrating Raila Odinga's life and legacy.
With Dr. Oburu's return, ODM is set to navigate its internal differences and commemorate the life of its leader, Raila Odinga. The party's events will not only honor Raila's legacy but also provide a platform for its leaders to discuss the party's future direction.
Key points
- Dr. Oburu Oginga returns to Kenya after a three-week medical leave in London.
- ODM plans a month-long series of events to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Raila Odinga's death.
- The party is facing internal discussions about its direction and relationship with the government and other political parties.
