Raila fails to declare his next political move and cites need for wider consultations
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has left his supporters, who were eagerly awaiting a decisive announcement on his political future following his setback in the 15 February 2025 AUC chairmanship race, disappointed as he revealed he was not yet ready to make a move.
Speaking during the party’s 20th anniversary celebration in Busia on Friday, February 28 2025, Raila acknowledged the high level of anticipation surrounding his next steps but stressed that taking more time for consultations would be in his best interest.
In his address, Raila reflected on the remarkable achievements both the party and himself, personally, had made over the years and explained that he needed additional time to deliberate, keep the government in check, and decide which direction to channel his energy.
“Hello. Watu wengi wanasema Baba endelee kushauriana na watu kwanza. Sindio ee, ndio nipate maoni. Na nataka kuhakikisha na ninyi tutakuwa mrengo ambao utalenga matakwa na haki za Wakenya wote. Hiyo ndio tutafanya. Hakuna nyokonyoko,” he stated amid jubilation from the crowd.
Longstanding leader
Raila, who was greeted with jubilation and fanfare during the event, further downplayed the significance of his AUC loss, asserting that it wasn’t a major setback for him, as he always had a home to return to.
He noted that his journey as a leader had been long and challenging, expressing gratitude to his supporters for their unwavering loyalty. He emphasised that he would never forget the sacrifices, including the bloodshed, endured by himself and party members to ensure the party’s relevance.
Raila, who has recently found common ground with his long-time political rival, President William Ruto, praised ODM for its pivotal role in securing a constitution that favoured the people of Kenya.
“East or West, home is best. Sasa Baba amerudi. Shukran sana. Sasa leo tunasherehekea miaka ishirini ya chama chetu cha ODM,” he said, before reflecting on the struggles they faced in the past.
He added, “Miaka ishirini iliyopita tuliingia katika halimbaya katika taifa letu, tulikuwa kule Bomas of Kenya kwa ajili ya mambo ya Katiba.”
Raila also recounted the unconventional origins of ODM, explaining that after rejecting the new constitution that had been introduced approximately 20 years ago, they were taken to a place where they had to choose between the banana (yes) or orange (no) symbol. This was the moment the party was truly born.
“Majamaa walikataa ile Katiba nzuri ya Bomas. Walikataa hiyo Katiba. Wakaua ule kijana alikuwa anasimamia mambo ya ugatuzi. Baadaye wakabadilisha hiyo Katiba wakleta ile Katiba mbovu ya Kilifi. Tukaenda kwa Bunge wakapitisha. Tutaenda kwa wananchi, wakatoa alama mbili, ndizi na chungwa. Wale ambao walikuwa wanasema ndiyo, na wale waliokuwa na chungwa, no. Na baada ya hapo tukasema hii chungwa itakuwa alama ya chama chetu. Sasa ODM ilizaliwa miaka ishirini iliyopita kule Kisumu,” he remarked.
ODM’s 20th Anniversary
Raila made these declarations as the ODM party convened at Bukiri Primary School in Funyula, Busia County, to commemorate the party’s two-decade milestone under the theme “Celebrating Our Unity and Diversity.”
The event was vibrant, filled with colour and excitement, and all the leaders who spoke showered Raila with praise, reaffirming their unwavering support for him, no matter which direction he decided to take.
Following Raila’s address, ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga led the attendees and leaders into a jubilant cake-cutting ceremony, as cheers echoed throughout the venue after Baba’s highly anticipated speech.
The celebration was attended by an array of distinguished ODM politicians, including Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o (Interim Party Leader), Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna (ODM Secretary-General), Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir (Deputy Party Leader), Kisii Governor Simba Arati (Deputy Party Leader), and Godfrey Osotsi (Deputy Leader).
