Babu Owino demands Raila’s will on ODM succession

thenamlola@gmail.com

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has called on the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to produce the late Raila Odinga’s political will on party succession, amid ongoing divisions over the party’s direction and presidential plans.

He was responding to claims that Raila’s burial, conducted 72 hours after his death, was guided by a will, “which even Mama Ida didn’t know.”

Mr Owino argued that if such a document exists, it should also include instructions on how ODM should proceed politically, particularly regarding the 2027 presidential election.

“Let them bring the will so that we know what Baba said about political succession,” Mr Owino said, framing his demand as a call for clarity and unity within the party.

ODM has split into two factions since Raila’s death in October 2025.

The Linda Mwananchi faction, led by Secretary‑General Edwin Sifuna and supported by veteran leaders including James Orengo, insists that ODM must field its own presidential candidate in 2027.

The rival faction, known as Linda Ground, rallies under party leader Dr Oburu Oginga, who said dissenting members are free to leave if uncomfortable with the party’s direction.

Dr Oburu emphasised that ODM should remain broad-based and continue coalition-building, rather than rushing into a presidential contest.

Mr Owino said ODM members can't rely on hearsay to make such an important decision.

"On 22nd September 2025, Baba clearly declared that ODM must produce a Presidential candidate. Raila was in a clear state of mind. Those saying otherwise hould produce a clip or the will they relied on to hurriedly bury him " he said.

At the same time, Mr Owino has hinted at his long-term presidential ambitions, saying the Linda Mwananchi movement — composed mostly of young leaders — must first consolidate grassroots support before formally deciding on a candidate.

He suggested that key figures in the movement, including himself, are “overqualified” to lead the country if the movement unites.

Leaders in the Linda Mwananchi camp have repeatedly said Raila left the party with enough leadership depth to contest the presidency in 2027.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi recently said, “ODM has leaders qualified for the presidency, including Sifuna, Babu and Orengo.”

Despite the internal rift, some senior party figures outside the rival rallies have urged caution.

Suna East MP Junet Mohamed emphasised the need for unity and coherence within ODM to prevent internal divisions from weakening the party ahead of national elections.

Whether Raila Odinga’s unproduced will holds any legal or political force remains unclear.

However, Mr Owino’s public demand heightens growing tensions within ODM about leadership succession, party strategy, and loyalty among members.