National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has defended the leadership of Oburu Odinga as the head of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), dismissing concerns about his age and expressing confidence in his ability to stabilise the party following Raila Odinga’s death.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Wednesday night, Mbadi said speculation about how long Oburu will lead the party was misplaced, arguing that matters of life and tenure ultimately rest with God.
“I don’t know how long Oburu will lead the party, ni Mungu anajua,” Mbadi said. “There are people who think that because he is too old, he will lead it for a short time. Who is going to die and when is God’s prerogative.”
Oburu Odinga took over the party leadership after the death of Raila Odinga, who had led ODM since its formation and was widely regarded as its central figure.
His succession has triggered debate within political circles over the future direction of the party and the transition to a new generation of leaders.
Mbadi, a long-time ally of Raila and senior figure within ODM, suggested that Oburu’s leadership could provide a transition period during which a younger leader would rise.
“Oburu will lead this party during which time another younger leader will emerge,” he said.
“Even Raila did not take over immediately after the death of his father; it took him about two years.”
The CS described Oburu as the most suitable choice available to guide the party at a critical moment.
He acknowledged that Oburu’s leadership style differs from that of his late brother but argued that the party required a steady hand rather than a replica of Raila.
“I think ODM could not have gotten a better choice than Oburu Odinga. Oburu will never be Raila; he is not Raila,” Mbadi said.
“Raila had built his stature over the years, from the time he was in prison to the time he went into exile. He won elections many times and was denied the win. Raila had a way of communicating that is not Oburu.”
According to Mbadi, Oburu brings a different but equally important quality to the party’s leadership.
“Oburu is a very stabilizing factor. He is a very sharp and intelligent mind. Raila used to rely a lot on Oburu’s advice. Oburu is a character that can steer the party,” he added.
His remarks come amid ongoing discussions within ODM about succession planning and the party’s strategy ahead of future elections.