By James Okoth
The winds of political realignment are sweeping across Kenya and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) stands at a defining moment. With Raila Amolo Odinga slowly stepping back from the political frontline, the question is no longer who inherits his name, but who carries forward his ideals.
When Elisha Jack Oraro, Speaker of the Kisumu County Assembly, led a delegation to Bondo, Raila’s ancestral home, it was not a routine political tour. It was a statement. A reminder that legacy and renewal can exist side by side.
Maseno, in Kisumu West, is where Raila was born, baptised and built his residence. His sister Ruth Odinga and other family members still live there. Speaking from that ground is to speak from the heart of Raila’s story.
Oraro’s political journey tells of steady rise and quiet influence. He began as MCA for Kisumu North Ward, later elected Speaker of the Kisumu County Assembly, now serving his second term. He is respected for calm leadership and balance, qualities that have earned him credibility as he now eyes the Kisumu West parliamentary seat.
The Bondo visit at Kang’o ka Kajaramogi and later to his Opoda farm gathered a broad team, including the clergy, local administrators, professionals, politicians, youth, women and the members Luo Council of Elders led by Ker Odungi Randa. It was a picture of inclusion and strategy, not mere ceremony.
Ker Randa invoked Raila’s legacy in his remarks.
“Raila Odinga was a man who loved peace,” he said. “It is not surprising that he had a strong bond with Speaker Oraro because Elisha too is a man of peace who values harmony among his people.”
Oraro used the moment to make a larger point about ODM’s future.
“Anyone who wishes to join ODM should be welcomed with open arms,” he said. “That is what Baba would have wanted, a party that unites, not divides.”
His message came at a time of renewed political intrigue. President William Ruto is believed to be warming up to ODM, while Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has hinted that ODM could be his next political home. Oraro’s words sounded like a coded but clear response.
“We cannot claim to defend Raila’s legacy while locking others out,” he added. “Baba built a movement, not a clique. ODM must remain a home for everyone who believes in justice and democracy.”
With MP Rosa Buyu away on official duty abroad, Oraro dominated the event both in presence and message. He came across as calm, steady and deliberate, speaking unity in a time of political uncertainty.
In Kisumu West, where Raila’s name still carries spiritual weight, Oraro’s call for inclusivity struck deep. It was a reminder that ODM’s strength has always come from its openness and diversity.
His journey, from MCA to two-term Speaker and now an MP hopeful, reflects patience and discipline. His message from Bondo in Siaya county was not just about politics, but about the future of a movement.
The house that Raila built must indeed have enough rooms for all. For ODM to survive and thrive, it must stay open, adaptable and inclusive. That is the challenge Oraro has placed before the movement and perhaps, before the next generation of ODM leadership.
