Africa-Press – Kenya. EALA MP Winnie Odinga says the Orange Democratic Movement party’s fire is far from fading, insisting that the party’s two decades of protest and perseverance continue to inspire a new generation of young Kenyans.
According to Winnie, ODM’s legacy is rooted in sacrifice and resilience, noting that the party has consistently stood with ordinary Kenyans in their quest for justice, equity, and accountable leadership.
Speaking during the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa, Winnie stated that since its formation 20 years ago, ODM has consistently embodied the aspirations of ordinary Kenyans seeking justice, equity and accountable governance.
“ODM has been the heartbeat of the Kenyan people for 20 years,” she said.
“ODM was born from protest, it was raised in resistance, and the people of ODM have time and time again bled, sweated and shed tears for this country called Kenya.”
While acknowledging that the party has not always been perfect, Winnie maintained that ODM’s identity is rooted in boldness and its readiness to speak truth to power.
She dismissed labels often used by critics to delegitimise the movement, insisting that the party’s confrontational style is both intentional and necessary in the country’s democratic evolution.
“We are sorry that we don’t always get it right,” she said. “But we will never be sorry for being inconvenient. They like to call us a party of goons, but what we are doing is nation-building.”
Winnie said nation-building, by its nature, is neither smooth nor comfortable.
She described it as a demanding process that often provokes friction, pointing out that ODM’s history of street protests, policy battles and robust civic engagement has been instrumental in expanding democratic space.
“Nation building is untidy, nation building is inconvenient, nation building is uncomfortable,” she said.
“Nation-building has left us in tears as ODM and as the People’s Party time and time again.”
Despite the challenges, Odinga expressed optimism about the party’s future, highlighting the energy and commitment of young members who are joining ODM in increasing numbers.
She said the youth represent a new generation of leaders ready to defend democratic ideals and push for transformational change.
“But we, ODM, belong to the people,” she emphasised. “And we will continue growing because the young people of ODM have conviction. It means something.”
Her remarks come at a time when ODM is repositioning itself ahead of upcoming political realignments, seeking to strengthen internal structures while reasserting its ideological identity.
The party’s National Governing Council has officially approved Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as the party’s leader.
The council also endorsed Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osoti as deputy party leaders.
Vice chairpersons Ariko Namoit and Rarieda MP, Senior Counsel Otiende Amollo, were likewise approved.
Appointments for Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga as Deputy Organising Secretary and Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu as Secretary of Political Affairs were also confirmed.
“They assume office subject to ratification by the National Delegates Convention (NDC). Congratulations to the new leaders,” ODM said in a statement.
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