Odhiambo Otieno Claims Oburu Odinga Cannot Fill Raila’s Shoes Amid ODM Leadership Debate

Fresh debate has erupted within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after communications specialist Odhiambo Otieno criticized the leadership of Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, arguing that he cannot match the political strength once displayed by his late brother.

Otieno, who previously served as a press secretary within ODM and was considered close to the party’s longtime leader Raila Odinga, made the remarks during a video interview that quickly circulated on social media.

In the interview, Otieno questioned whether Oburu possesses the leadership qualities needed to guide the party through its next political phase.

According to him, the veteran senator has never demonstrated the level of independence and resilience that defined Raila Odinga’s political career.

“Oburu is a weak man. He has never stood on his own two feet to fight for anything meaningful, either for himself or for the country,” Otieno said during the interview.

He further argued that Raila himself had previously limited his brother’s influence within the party because he believed Oburu lacked the toughness required to lead high-stakes political battles.

The remarks have reignited internal discussions within ODM at a time when the party is navigating a sensitive transition period.

Following Raila Odinga’s absence from day-to-day party operations, attention has increasingly turned to who will shape the party’s future and lead it into the 2027 Kenyan General Election.

Interestingly, Oburu himself has previously acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge associated with stepping into his brother’s political space.

In earlier remarks, he admitted that the legacy left by Raila is extremely difficult for anyone to match. 

“People are saying the shoes of Raila are too big for me. Even though they are big, I am trying—I cannot surrender,” he said during a recent public appearance.

His statement reflects the pressure facing any leader attempting to guide ODM after years of Raila’s dominance in opposition politics.

At the same time, internal divisions within the party have been growing. Edwin Sifuna recently criticized a parliamentary meeting between ODM leaders and members of the ruling United Democratic Alliance associated with President William Ruto.

Sifuna described the engagement as undermining the legacy built by Raila, especially amid debates about possible cooperation between ODM and the government.

Political commentators have also weighed in on the leadership question, with some suggesting that Oburu may struggle to command the same influence that Raila once used to protect political allies and maintain party unity.

As the debate continues, other prominent figures within ODM are also emerging as possible future leaders. 

Among those frequently mentioned are Babu Owino and Winnie Odinga, both of whom have strong followings among sections of the party’s supporters.