Oburu Odinga’s decision to step away from political activities for a short period comes at a time when he has been carrying heavy emotional and leadership responsibilities.
His recent months have been filled with demanding moments, both within his family and in the wider political space, leaving him little room to rest or reflect.
The passing of his younger brother, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, placed him in the national spotlight as he guided the family and the ODM community through a painful season.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, and was buried four days later at his Opoda Farm in Bondo, an event that drew national attention and placed a significant emotional burden on Oburu.
After the funeral, he did not slow down. Instead, he moved directly into major party events, including leading the ODM family during its 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa in mid-November.
These events required him to stand before supporters, reflect on the party’s long journey, and speak about Raila’s legacy at a time when the grief was still very fresh.
He also joined different campaign activities to support ODM candidates contesting seats in the November 27 by-elections across the country.
This constant movement kept him in the public eye without offering him space to process the personal loss he had just experienced.
On the night of November 21, Oburu announced through X that he was taking a sabbatical, saying he felt grateful for his health and needed time to recollect, recharge, and reset. His message showed someone who had reached a point where stepping back was necessary for his well-being.
Even while taking charge of ODM activities, he openly criticised some members whom he felt had turned their backs on his late brother’s principles.
During the party’s anniversary event, he spoke emotionally, recalling the long journey he walked with Raila.
He reminded supporters that he had been part of the party since the first day and expressed how deeply the loss continued to affect him.
He repeated the exact words he shared during the event, saying, “Kufika hapa mbele yenu… Hakuna mahali mimi sikukuwako,” while explaining that Raila had been his friend, brother, and confidant for decades.
His emotional remarks highlighted the pressure he has been under while trying to protect Raila’s legacy and maintain unity within ODM.
However, internal concerns continue to emerge. Saboti MP Caleb Amisi recently claimed that Raila left the party in the wrong hands.
He argued on a local TV station that the confusion and disagreements inside ODM are signs that the current leadership is struggling and that such instability could disturb Raila’s peace even in death.
According to Amisi, the people currently leading the party lack the strength needed to guide it through this period, and he believes the leadership structure is not aligned with the party’s constitution.
Oburu’s break, therefore, comes at a moment when ODM is facing internal tension and public scrutiny. His absence may create more questions about the party’s direction, but it may also give him the clarity he needs to return stronger.
