ODM Nairobi Delegates Endorse Winnie Odinga to Deputy Party Leader

Leaders of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Nairobi have shown strong support for Winnie Odinga to take up the role of Deputy Party Leader.

The decision was made during a meeting of party delegates on Tuesday, at a time when ODM is facing internal disagreements.

Winnie, who is the daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, is now being pushed into a powerful leadership position. Her rise comes as younger members of the party continue to seek more influence, challenging the older leadership.

The meeting was led by Makadara MP George Aladwa, who also serves as the ODM Nairobi branch chairperson. During the meeting, delegates also chose Winnie as Nairobi’s top party representative.

According to Aladwa, the delegates agreed that Winnie will now sit in key party organs, including the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Central Committee. He confirmed that most members supported her appointment.

Winnie now takes over the role of Nairobi’s “Number One Delegate,” a position that was previously held by her father, Raila Odinga. Nairobi remains one of ODM’s strongest support bases, making this role very important.

All ODM chairpersons from the 17 constituencies in Nairobi publicly supported her appointment, showing unity at the county level.

Push for New Secretary-General

During the same meeting, delegates also supported George Aladwa to become the party’s Secretary-General. This comes ahead of the upcoming National Delegates Convention (NDC).

Currently, the position is being held on an acting basis by Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo. This followed the controversial removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

Changing Political Position

Winnie’s endorsement also shows a shift in her political stand within the party. In the past, she seemed to disagree with leaders linked to her uncle Oburu Odinga.

Earlier this year, while speaking at a rally in Kamkunji, Winnie defended members who were being told to leave the party. She insisted that ODM belongs to the people and warned that removing members would weaken the party.

She argued that if members leave, they go with their supporters, which would affect the party’s strength.

Previously, Winnie was seen to be closer to younger ODM leaders, including allies of Babu Owino and Edwin Sifuna.

However, after a family meeting called by Oburu Odinga in February, she has kept a lower profile and avoided making strong public statements.