ODM leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has flown to Dubai for a short three-day break. He travelled after a very busy and emotional period, especially following the death of his younger brother, Raila Odinga.
Oburu said on social media that he is feeling well and in good spirits. He explained that he simply needed time to rest, recharge, and clear his mind. His sister, Ruth Odinga, also confirmed that the trip had been planned earlier so he could take a proper break.
The past few weeks have been heavy for him. He was deeply involved in Raila’s state funeral and spent days moving between Bondo and Nairobi. Soon after, he was appointed interim ODM leader and later confirmed by the party. He led the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa, which was the party’s first major event without Raila.
When he returns, Oburu will face several responsibilities. He will help manage family matters, including the Odinga political and business interests, which he used to handle jointly with Raila. He has already spoken about his worry that disagreements could arise if these issues are not handled carefully.
He also has major party issues waiting for him. ODM is facing internal divisions, with different groups arguing about whether to support President Ruto’s broad-based government or run their own candidate in 2027.
By-elections on November 27 will also test the party, especially since this will be the first time ODM candidates run without Raila’s strong influence.
There are also calls for a National Delegates Convention to decide ODM’s future direction. Winnie Odinga highlighted this during the anniversary event in Mombasa, saying the party must make its position clear.
Oburu’s time in Dubai is short, but important. It gives him a moment to breathe before stepping back into a demanding political environment. When he returns, he will face a party in transition, a family adjusting after loss, and a country watching to see how he leads in this new chapter.
By Vivian K.