The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Jubilee presidential hopeful Fred Matiang’i has sent a warm congratulatory message to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as the party marks two decades on Kenya’s political scene.
ODM is holding its 20th anniversary celebrations at the Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa from Friday to Sunday, honouring its political journey and paying tribute to its late party leader, Raila Amolo Odinga.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
In his statement, Matiang’i commended ODM for playing a pivotal role in advancing Kenya’s multiparty democracy.
“On behalf of my colleagues in the Jubilee Party, I congratulate the ODM Party on its 20th anniversary. I do so as someone who believes in strong institutions as the foundation of any orderly society,” he said.
Matiang’i credited ODM for consistently holding governments accountable and shaping Kenya’s political culture.
“For the past twenty years, ODM has made significant contributions to entrenching multiparty democracy and has provided critical oversight in governance,” he added.
His message comes weeks after the passing of Raila Odinga, whose decades of leadership defined ODM’s identity and cemented his reputation as a champion of democracy and civil liberties.
Raila died on October 15 while receiving treatment for cardiac arrest in India.
His elder brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, has already been endorsed by the party’s governing council as Raila’s successor, pending approval by the national delegates convention.
Matiang’i encouraged ODM’s incoming leaders to uphold Raila’s ideals.
“Raila was the guiding star of the party and its most accomplished leader. I hope the new leadership will continue to draw from the values and principles that Kenyans associated with Baba Raila Odinga,” he said.
Click Here To Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel
He also drew parallels with other African parties that successfully transitioned after losing iconic leaders, including ANC’s Nelson Mandela and Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere of CCM, saying their examples highlight the need for ideological stability over political convenience.
The anniversary event will include sessions reviewing ODM’s legacy, celebrating its role in national politics and paying homage to Raila.
Matiang’i’s statement portrayed him as a national figure who respects political institutions while subtly reinforcing his 2027 presidential bid.
“To the ODM leadership, its members and all Kenyans of goodwill, I extend my best wishes on your 20th anniversary,” he concluded.
