Not Oburu, Not Babu: Mbadi Steps Forward, Declares Bid to Succeed Raila as Leader of the Luo

National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has sparked debate after publicly hinting that he could be the most suitable figure to guide the Luo community following the death of Raila Odinga.

Speaking during a community event, Mbadi said Raila’s passing created a leadership vacuum that no individual can completely fill.

However, he urged the community to remain resilient and prepare for a new phase in their political journey.

Mbadi emphasised that Raila’s political legacy remains unmatched. He noted that the former ODM leader’s sacrifices, including exile and imprisonment, placed him in a league of his own.

For this reason, Mbadi insisted he would not attempt to imitate Raila, but instead lead in his own capacity.

The CS likened himself to a “Joshua” who had already been sent ahead to understand Raila’s political destination, saying he understood the vision the late leader had for his people.

On the future of ODM, Mbadi issued a sober assessment. He said the party is unlikely to mount a competitive presidential bid in the 2027 General Election.

According to him, Raila was the party’s only realistic contender, and rebuilding a candidate with national appeal will require time.

He argued that ODM should start strategising for 2032 by aligning with the most viable political side—President William Ruto’s camp.

Mbadi praised Ruto for including Raila allies in government and accelerating development projects in Luo Nyanza, saying this demonstrated goodwill.

His remarks echoed sentiments by Raila Odinga’s longtime communications aide, Dennis Onyango, who also expressed doubt that ODM can produce a strong presidential candidate in 2027.

Onyango suggested that alliances with stronger political forces may be the only realistic option.

Both leaders stressed that Raila’s absence marks the beginning of a new political chapter—one that requires unity, strategy, and acceptance of hard truths.