Raila Odinga, Kenya’s African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship candidate, convened a pivotal meeting with elected leaders from Western Kenya under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) banner, aiming to solidify the party’s presence in the region ahead of upcoming grassroots elections.
Raila hosted a dinner with ODM Members of Parliament and governors representing the Mulembe nation at a Nairobi hotel.
The former Prime Minister emphasized strengthening ODM’s influence and preparing for grassroots elections slated for November 27, 2024.
During the meeting, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa highlighted Raila’s reaffirmed dedication to devolution as a cornerstone for equitable development.
“We discussed the upcoming grassroots elections, emphasizing transparency and inclusivity to deepen our connection with the people and ensure party unity.
“Hon. Odinga reaffirmed his commitment to devolution as a tool for better service delivery. We pledged to support initiatives that safeguard its gains and empower counties,” Barasa wrote in a post on X on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
Leadership transition
This gathering follows Raila’s recent step back from ODM’s leadership.
On October 12, 2024, during the party’s National Executive Committee meeting in Mombasa, Raila officially passed the baton to Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, who now serves as acting leader.
The decision allows Raila to focus on his campaign for the African Union Commission Chairmanship, a role he has been preparing for with unwavering commitment.
In his emotional address during the leadership handover, Raila outlined three key wishes for the party’s future.
Raila’s 3 wishes for ODM
First, Raila urged ODM to maintain its professionalism, referencing a report from the Registrar of Political Parties that lauded ODM as the only Kenyan political party operating ethically and within the law.
“Ata yule mkaguzi wa vyama amesema yakwamba ODM pekeake ndo chama ambaye inaendeshwa kwa maadili na sheria. Nataka ODM izidi kuongoza katika eneo hizo,” he said.
Secondly, Raila called for unity among ODM members, encouraging them to remain steadfast in pursuing the party’s vision for Kenya.
“Na vile vile tunataka wanachama wetu wazidi kuunga mkono chama chetu. Najua kuna changamoto mingi uko mbele lakini kama watu wetu wakishikana pamoja nina uhakika kwamba tutaweza,” he emphasized.
Finally, Raila stressed the importance of peaceful grassroots elections. He implored contenders to respect democratic outcomes and prioritize party cohesion over individual ambitions.
“Hio uchaguzi tunataka ifanyike kwa njia ya demokrasia, hatutaki fujo…Kama watu wawili wamejitokeza kugombea kiti mmoja atashinda na mmoja atashindwa wakimaliza wanasalamiana maanake chama ndo muhimu zaidi kuliko wewe ama mwingine,” Raila noted.
