The discussion comes at a time when ODM is adjusting to new leadership following the death of former party leader Raila Odinga.
During the ODM @20 celebrations in Mombasa on Saturday, November 15, Oburu addressed the issue directly. Winnie, who is Raila’s daughter and an elected member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), had publicly asked ODM to hold a National Delegates Conference (NDC).
During the ODM @20 celebrations in Mombasa on Saturday, November 15, Oburu addressed the issue directly. Winnie, who is Raila’s daughter and an elected member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), had publicly asked ODM to hold a National Delegates Conference (NDC).
She argued that only an NDC could decide the future of the broad-based government arrangement that Raila had helped negotiate before his passing.
Oburu Says the Discussion Will Happen Privately
Oburu responded politely but firmly, indicating that he did not agree with Winnie’s proposal. Speaking to supporters at the celebration, he said the conversation about the party’s direction would be handled privately within the “family.”
According to him, internal disagreements should first be discussed between leaders closest to Raila, especially when the matter involves emotions and the party’s future direction. He assured ODM members that he would meet Winnie privately to explain his position and listen to her concerns.
His approach reflected a desire to maintain calm within the party during a sensitive transition period. Even though he dismissed the need for an NDC on this matter, he emphasized that there was no conflict between him and Winnie.
Oburu, recently confirmed as ODM’s new party leader, used the moment to reassure members of his commitment. He said he intends to lead the party in the same direction that Raila had set for many years.
He reminded the audience that his long political journey with Raila gives him an understanding of the party’s values and goals.
Oburu Says the Discussion Will Happen Privately
Oburu responded politely but firmly, indicating that he did not agree with Winnie’s proposal. Speaking to supporters at the celebration, he said the conversation about the party’s direction would be handled privately within the “family.”
According to him, internal disagreements should first be discussed between leaders closest to Raila, especially when the matter involves emotions and the party’s future direction. He assured ODM members that he would meet Winnie privately to explain his position and listen to her concerns.
His approach reflected a desire to maintain calm within the party during a sensitive transition period. Even though he dismissed the need for an NDC on this matter, he emphasized that there was no conflict between him and Winnie.
Oburu, recently confirmed as ODM’s new party leader, used the moment to reassure members of his commitment. He said he intends to lead the party in the same direction that Raila had set for many years.
He reminded the audience that his long political journey with Raila gives him an understanding of the party’s values and goals.
Oburu stated he would fulfil the late leader’s unfinished mission without fear, and that he had no intention of changing the principles that have guided ODM since its formation.
Winnie Odinga, however, raised a separate concern that has resonated with a section of ODM supporters.
Winnie Odinga, however, raised a separate concern that has resonated with a section of ODM supporters.
She questioned whether the current crop of leaders, including those now managing the broad-based government relationship, have the ability to handle the responsibilities previously managed by Raila.
She argued that the agreement with the Ruto government is complex and needs someone with a deep understanding of national politics, grassroots expectations, and negotiation skills.
She argued that the agreement with the Ruto government is complex and needs someone with a deep understanding of national politics, grassroots expectations, and negotiation skills.
According to her, the decision on who should manage that relationship must come from the ODM delegates, not from a few individuals at the top.
Winnie insisted that the party must allow its delegates to give direction through an NDC, especially now that Raila is no longer present to guide the leadership.
The exchange between Oburu and Winnie has highlighted the challenges ODM faces after Raila’s death. The party is trying to strike a balance between honouring Raila’s legacy and building a stable future under new leadership.
Winnie insisted that the party must allow its delegates to give direction through an NDC, especially now that Raila is no longer present to guide the leadership.
The exchange between Oburu and Winnie has highlighted the challenges ODM faces after Raila’s death. The party is trying to strike a balance between honouring Raila’s legacy and building a stable future under new leadership.
While Oburu is focused on continuity, Winnie is pushing for internal democracy and more involvement from party delegates.
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