What Kenyans Should Expect on Way Forward – Raila Odinga
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has left his supporters waiting after failing to make a clear decision about his political future. Many were expecting him to announce his next move after losing the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship race on February 15, 2025. However, during the party’s 20th-anniversary event in Busia on February 28, 2025, he stated that he needed more time to consult before making a decision.
Speaking at the event, Raila acknowledged that his supporters were eager to know his plans but insisted that careful consultation was necessary. He said he wanted to reflect on the progress he and the party had made over the years, monitor the government’s actions, and decide where to focus his energy moving forward.
Addressing the crowd, he said in Swahili, “Many people are saying Baba should continue consulting first. Isn’t that right? I need to listen to opinions. I want to ensure that together we build a movement that stands for the rights and needs of all Kenyans. That’s what we will do. No confusion.” His words were met with loud cheers from the audience.
Raila’s Political Journey
Despite his recent loss in the AUC race, Raila reassured his supporters that it was not a major setback. He emphasized that, no matter what, he always had a political home to return to.
He reflected on his long and sometimes difficult journey in politics, thanking his supporters for their loyalty. He reminded them of the sacrifices, including bloodshed, that had been made to keep ODM strong and relevant.
Recently, Raila has softened his stance against his former rival, President William Ruto. However, he credited ODM for playing a major role in pushing for a people-friendly constitution.
Referring to his return to active politics, Raila said, “East or West, home is best. Baba is back. Thank you very much. Today, we are celebrating 20 years of our party, ODM.”
He then recalled the struggles ODM faced, saying, “Twenty years ago, our country was in a bad situation. We were at Bomas of Kenya discussing the constitution.”
The Birth of ODM
Raila went on to narrate how ODM was formed. He explained that nearly 20 years ago, when they rejected a proposed constitution, they were asked to vote using symbols—a banana for “yes” and an orange for “no.” Those who opposed the constitution chose the orange symbol, and from that moment, ODM was born.
He recalled, “Some people rejected the good constitution from Bomas. They refused to accept it. They even eliminated a young leader who was supporting devolution. Later, they changed the constitution and brought a bad one from Kilifi. When it was taken to Parliament, they passed it. Then they took it to the public, where they introduced two symbols—banana and orange. Those supporting it chose the banana, while those against it chose the orange. From that moment, we decided that the orange would be the symbol of our party. That’s how ODM was founded 20 years ago in Kisumu.”
ODM’s 20th Anniversary
Raila spoke during a major ODM celebration held at Bukiri Primary School in Funyula, Busia County. The event marked two decades of the party’s existence under the theme “Celebrating Our Unity and Diversity.”
The anniversary was lively and full of energy. Various leaders praised Raila and pledged their continued support, regardless of the path he chooses.
After Raila’s speech, ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga led a cake-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion. The crowd cheered as the party’s leadership celebrated their achievements.
The event was attended by prominent ODM politicians, including Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o (Interim Party Leader), Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna (Secretary-General), Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir (Deputy Party Leader), Kisii Governor Simba Arati (Deputy Party Leader), and Godfrey Osotsi (Deputy Leader).
What Kenyans Should Expect on Way Forward – Raila Odinga
