The Jaramogi family after a meeting held at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi on February 1, 2025. Dr Oburu Oginga is sandwiched by niece Winnie Odinga and sister Ruth.

📋 Breaking It Down

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faces a major test of its internal democracy ahead of the 2027 General Election as five members of the Odinga family emerge as potential contenders for various elective positions.

The entry of Raila Odinga’s son Junior into the race for the Kibra parliamentary seat has thrust the family’s political future back into the spotlight, raising questions over whether the Odinga name will continue to command the influence it wielded under the late former Prime Minister.

For years, Raila was the undisputed political centre of gravity of the family and the broader ODM establishment, often stepping in to resolve disputes among allies and family members seeking elective positions.

📌 What You Need to Know

With his death, however, the family is confronting a new political reality where several members are now seeking elective office at the same time, setting the stage for potentially bruising ODM nominations.

Kisumu County Woman Representative Ruth Odinga during an interview with the Daily Nation in Nairobi on May 22, 2026

Besides Junior, ODM leader Oburu Oginga is seeking to retain his Siaya Senate seat while Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has declared her intention to contest the Kisumu governorship.

EALA MP Winnie Odinga is reportedly considering a bid for the Nairobi Senate seat although she has not publicly confirmed her plans.

Winnie Odinga speaks during the ODM party's Special Delegates Convention at the ASK Dome, Jamhuri Expo Centre, in Nairobi, on March 27, 2026.

Sources have also indicated that Jaoko Oburu, Dr Oginga’s son, is considering a bid for the Bondo parliamentary seat.

📰 Source: Nation Africa