Political commentator Kipkalya Kones has expressed sympathy for Dr. Oburu Oginga, the newly appointed leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), who has recently taken the helm following the death of his younger brother, Raila Odinga.
The analyst remarks,paint a picture of a seasoned politician thrust into an environment where expectations, social media ridicule, and intra-party rivalries have defined his early tenure.
In his post, Kones observed that during Raila Odinga’s lifetime, Oburu played a critical role as a stabilizing force within both the party and the family.
“Raila had a calming effect, a voice of reason whenever party and family hawks threatened to influence him into anything reckless,” Kones noted.
He added that Oburu’s measured words and strategic mind had long helped steady the Odinga political ship, providing balance and wisdom behind the scenes.
However, Kones lamented that the same Oburu has now become the subject of caricature and online jokes, describing him as “a butt of all jokes and derogatory memes.”
The commentator suggested that a more cautious approach when inheriting leadership—such as deferring the immediate succession or proposing another senior party official—might have preserved Oburu’s dignity and public image.
Kones’ critique extends beyond social media trends. He highlighted the stark reality at party rallies, where he says attendees and party officials often appear disengaged.
He described scenes where MPs were distracted by their phones or engaged in casual conversations while Oburu addressed the crowd.
Such moments, Kones argues, reflect a deeper challenge: the contrast between Oburu’s leadership and the rising influence of other figures like Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who continue to capture public attention.
“The MPs attend Oburu’s rallies while secretly following Sifuna’s, reducing the party leader to a consumer of gossip,” Kones wrote.
He described Oburu’s efforts to maintain momentum during the “Linda Mwananchi” ground tours as undermined by the very structures expected to support him.
Local MPs, according to Kones, are caught in a complex web of obligations, state influence, and constituent expectations, leaving them constrained even as political change sweeps through their communities.
Kones’ commentary portrays a scenario where Oburu faces not just public scrutiny but an internal struggle within the party.
While leading initiatives intended to consolidate support and maintain party cohesion, the ODM leader contends with distracted MPs, comparison with his late brother’s legacy, and the growing popularity of rival campaigns.
Kones expressed empathy not only for Oburu but also for the MPs who navigate these pressures, suggesting that the political machinery often leaves little room for strategic autonomy or genuine engagement with constituents.