The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has named Siaya County Senator Oburu Oginga as its Acting Party Leader, following the death of his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) met on Thursday morning, where members unanimously agreed to Oburu’s appointment. The decision takes effect immediately.

In a brief statement, ODM said the move was made to ensure “continuity and stability” during a time of national mourning.

“The National Executive Committee (NEC) has this morning met and unanimously endorsed the designation of the Senator of Siaya County, Oburu Oginga, as the Acting Party Leader. This appointment takes effect immediately,” the statement read.

Oburu, 81, is one of the most senior figures in the party and has been a key member of ODM since its founding. He brings with him decades of political experience, having served as an assistant minister, member of parliament, and now senator.

The decision comes as ODM begins a delicate transition period after the loss of Raila, who led the party for nearly two decades and shaped Kenya’s opposition politics. Party insiders described Oburu’s appointment as a stabilising move meant to preserve ODM’s unity and legacy.

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai, a vocal ODM member, defended the NEC’s decision on X (formerly Twitter), urging Kenyans to respect the process.

“The acting Party Leader now that Baba Raila Odinga is resting, is Oburu Odinga. Don’t listen to the people who are still in political adolescence,” Alai wrote.

Political analysts note that ODM’s swift decision signals a desire to avoid internal wrangles at a moment of national grief. “This is a practical choice,” said one party insider who asked not to be named. “Oburu understands both the family legacy and the party’s structures.”

Oburu’s appointment is temporary, with ODM expected to convene a National Delegates Conference later to determine the party’s long-term leadership. For now, the focus remains on unity as Kenyans prepare to bid farewell to Raila Odinga, whose body will be laid to rest in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday.