Raila Breaks Silence on ODM Party Leadership, Endorses Trusted Deputies

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Former Premier Raila Amollo Odinga has broken his silence on the issue of his successor at the helm of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party should he clinch the Africa Union Commission chairmanship.

Raila who was speaking on Thursday, March 7 during an ODM Party recruitment drive in Wajir County said former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho and firmer Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya were both well-equiped to take over the running of the party in the event of his absence.

At the same time Raila directed the two ODM deputy party leaders to unite the party and enhance its grassroots support.

The former Prime Minister expressed confidence that Joho and Oparanya would steer the party forward even in his absence.

“We have Oparanya and Joho… they will stand together. A strong party foundation cannot crumble just because one person has stepped aside. The party is not an individual; it comprises members and leaders. I am confident that Oparanya and Joho will continue to lead the party even if I am in Addis Ababa,” said Raila.

The opposition chief also noted he is willing to advise the two former governors on how to govern the ODM party and make it intact.

“If they want advice, I am ready to advise them. ODM will remain intact,” Raila added.

The ODM leader on February 15 announced his interest in replacing Moussa Faki when his term lapses in 2025.

If successful Raila would have to take a back seat in Kenyan politics during that period where he would be serving as the AU Commission chairperson.

His succession in the ODM party has attracted a debate with several politicians expressing interest in replacing him.

Ida Odinga on February 24 vouched for nominated MP John Mbadi who she said had been by Raila’s side for a while and was therefore aware of the ODM leader’s political know-how.

“All the years that you’ve been with Baba (Raila Odinga), you’ve gained more knowledge and leadership skills that you can use to lead the people. Are you not able?” Ida posed to Mbadi.

Other interested players in the Raila succession has been Minority Leader James Opiyo Wandayi and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.