Mombasa: Party members, leaders, and supporters from across the country are gathering in the Port City of Mombasa to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
According to Kenya News Agency, the celebration, dubbed ODM@20, will take place at the Mama Ngina Waterfront, where members will honor the legacy of the late party leader Raila Odinga and his vision for Kenya’s future. During a National Governing Council meeting held earlier, several new ODM leaders were sworn in, including Dr. Oburu Oginga as the new ODM Party Leader, alongside three Deputy Party Leaders: Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, Senator Godfrey Osostsi from Vihiga County, and Paul Simba Arati.
Newly appointed leaders such as National Chairperson Hon. Gladys Nyasuna Wanga, National Organising Secretary Ahmed Mohammed, Deputy Organising Secretary Ruth Odinga, and Secretary for Political Affairs Rose Akinyi Mbuyu were also introduced. Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyongo’ formally handed over the instruments of power to Dr. Oburu Oginga, marking a new chapter for the party.
ODM Deputy Party Leader and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir praised the party’s commitment to justice, equality, and good governance over the past two decades. He emphasized the importance of the anniversary as both a reflection on the party’s journey and a commitment to its future goals. Nassir expressed admiration for the founding leader, Raila Odinga, and his dedication to Kenya’s political transformation.
Nassir urged ODM members to focus on strengthening the party’s grassroots and ensuring its pivotal role in Kenya’s upcoming development phase. Mombasa Women Representative Zam Zam Mohammed highlighted the significance of the celebration as a reminder that democracy serves all Kenyans, regardless of tribe or status, and praised the unity and peace demonstrated by leaders and citizens in honoring the movement that has shaped the country’s democratic landscape.
