Have you ever felt so burned out that you just needed to escape? That’s exactly what’s happening with Kenyan Senator Oburu Odinga. After a relentlessly demanding period, both politically and personally, he’s jetted off to Dubai for a brief respite. But why now, and what exactly has he been dealing with? Let’s dive in.
According to a social media announcement made by his sister, Ruth Odinga, the Siaya Senator embarked on a three-day trip to Dubai to simply rest and recharge. Ruth described the preceding weeks as “hectic and emotionally taxing,” emphasizing the critical need for this break. This announcement closely followed Oburu’s own statement, where he expressed gratitude for his health and high spirits, stating he was taking a “short sabbatical to recollect, recharge, and reset.” It sounds like he’s ready for some serious R&R!
But what exactly has been keeping him so busy? And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just one thing, but a confluence of significant events.
First and foremost, Oburu played a central role in the funeral arrangements for his younger brother, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who tragically passed away on October 15th. As a key member of the funeral committee, he shouldered the immense responsibility of overseeing all logistical and ceremonial aspects, including the arrangements for Raila’s final resting place at their family home in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Siaya County. This is a huge undertaking, both practically and emotionally.
Beyond the deeply personal burden of his brother’s passing, Oburu has also been intensely involved in his political duties. He has remained deeply active within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). He chaired and participated in numerous party activities, including the ODM@20 anniversary celebrations held in Mombasa earlier this month. This event, marking two decades of the party’s existence, brought together senior members, delegates, and supporters, with Oburu playing a crucial role in its planning and coordination. Think of it as organizing a massive birthday party, but with the future of a major political party at stake!
Most significantly, and here’s where it gets controversial…, Oburu was officially endorsed by the ODM National Governing Council as the new party leader. This endorsement solidifies his long-standing position within Kenya’s political landscape and marks a significant moment for the ODM. But here’s the potential controversy: some might argue that this endorsement was premature, or that other candidates might have been more suitable. It’s a decision sure to spark debate within the party and among political observers.
This endorsement comes at a crucial time, as the party navigates internal succession planning and aims to re-energize its base in preparation for the 2027 General Election. The ODM is at a crossroads, and Oburu’s leadership will be critical in shaping its future.
He has previously dismissed attempts to splinter the outfit, saying the party remains intact and focused ahead of the 2027 General Election. Oburu said no factional pressure would be allowed to destabilise the party, adding that ODM is instead preparing to strengthen its grassroots and national structures..
Speaking on Wednesday, November 19, Oburu dismissed claims that ODM was gearing up to remain in the opposition, stressing that the party is targeting power. “Those who want to break ODM, it will never happen in my hands. We shall not allow ODM to be divided. We are going to move forward and make ODM stronger so that when it comes to 2027, we are either going to do it alone or we will go with parties with which we shall negotiate a good deal to work together. That is what our party is all about,” the party leader said.
“There is nothing like forming a party to be in the opposition. I’m not going to lead my party to be in the opposition, I’m going to lead my party to be in the government.”
So, what do you think? Was Oburu Odinga’s trip to Dubai a well-deserved break, or should he have stayed and focused on party matters? And what are your thoughts on his recent endorsement as party leader? Is he the right person to lead the ODM forward, or are there other potential candidates who would be a better fit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!