The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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EALA MP Winnie Odinga says the Orange Democratic Movement’s fire remains alive, stressing that the party’s 20-year history of protest, courage and persistence continues to inspire young Kenyans.
Winnie noted that ODM’s identity is built on sacrifice and resilience, saying the party has consistently aligned itself with ordinary citizens fighting for justice, fairness and accountable leadership.
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Speaking during the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa, she said the movement has, since its inception, represented the hopes of Kenyans seeking equality and good governance.
“For 20 years, ODM has been the heartbeat of the Kenyan people,” she said.
“ODM was born out of protest and nurtured through resistance, and its members have repeatedly bled, sweated and cried for this country.”
She admitted the party has made mistakes along the way but insisted that its boldness and willingness to challenge authority are central to its identity.
Winnie dismissed the labels critics use to undermine ODM, saying the party’s confrontational approach is deliberate and necessary in Kenya’s democratic journey.
“We apologise when we fall short,” she said. “But we will never apologise for being inconvenient. They call us goons, yet what we are doing is building a nation.”
She said nation-building is naturally difficult and uncomfortable, adding that ODM’s long history of protests, policy fights and civic activism has helped widen Kenya’s democratic space.
“Nation-building is messy, inconvenient and uncomfortable,” she said. “It has pushed us to tears—again and again—as ODM and as the People’s Party.”
Despite the struggles, Winnie expressed confidence in the party’s future, highlighting the growing involvement of young people who are committed to protecting democratic values and driving change.
“We belong to the people,” she said. “And we will keep growing because the young people of ODM have conviction. That matters.”
Her comments come as ODM reorganises itself in preparation for future political shifts, strengthening its internal leadership and reaffirming its ideology.
The National Governing Council has endorsed Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as party leader and approved Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Kisii Governor Simba Arati and Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osoti as deputy party leaders.
Vice chairpersons Ariko Namoit and Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo were also confirmed, along with the appointments of Kisumu Woman Rep Ruth Odinga as Deputy Organising Secretary and Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu as Secretary of Political Affairs.
These appointments await ratification by the National Delegates Convention, the party said.
