Winnie Odinga, the daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has publicly stated that Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga is not the legitimate leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. This declaration comes after the party’s National Governing Council (NGC) appointed Oburu as the acting party leader following Raila Odinga’s passing last month.
Speaking at an ODM 20-year anniversary forum in Mombasa, Winnie Odinga—who is seen by many as a potential heir to her father’s political legacy—asserted that Oburu is only serving in an acting capacity. She emphasized that according to the party’s constitution, only the National Delegates Convention (NDC) holds the power to formally elect a leader.
“We need to go back to the people and hold an NDC to see who they want to take the seat,” Winnie stated.
Her position was supported by Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, who argued that Oburu’s role is open to a legal challenge. Amisi cited Article 6.2(b) of the ODM Constitution, which mandates that a special session of the National Delegates Conference must be convened to elect a new party leader whenever the position falls vacant due to death, resignation, or removal.
Amisi further warned of potential legal repercussions, stating, “In fact, if your nomination certificate is signed by Oburu, it can be challenged in court because the constitution is clear that a new party leader must be elected through an NDC.”
However, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has dismissed these claims, defending the NGC’s decision. She argued that the appointment is legal because the NDC delegates its powers to the NGC between its sessions.
“The NGC is the executive arm of the NDC. Convening an NDC is a huge exercise. Now that the NGC has ratified these officers, we are formally in office,” Wanga stated.
The disagreement sets the stage for a significant internal debate within ODM regarding the party’s leadership and future direction.
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