Life at the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s Capitol Hill office has dramatically changed following his death in October, with his former personal assistant Jack Nyamburi painting a picture of emptiness, uncertainty, and strained political connections within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Speaking on the evolving situation, Nyamburi, who was appointed Raila’s personal assistant in January 2023, said the once-busy political hub has now fallen silent, with minimal activity and reduced engagement from leaders who previously relied heavily on Raila’s presence.
“The office is a ghost area. Most of the time, no one comes there,” Nyamburi said, describing the sharp decline in visits, meetings, and political consultations that once defined the office’s operations.
He further revealed that communication with senior ODM leaders has become increasingly difficult, alleging that most of his calls and messages to Members of Parliament and Cabinet Secretaries affiliated to the party now go unanswered.
“I have been calling these MPs and Cabinet Secretaries from our party. None has picked,” he said, adding that Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi occasionally responds when available.
Amid the uncertainty facing former staff members, Nyamburi praised East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga for stepping in with financial support during a difficult transition period.
He disclosed that Winnie contributed $50,000, approximately KSh 6.46 million, during a meeting held at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation to assist staff members left in limbo.
“I really want to appreciate her for that. No one has ever done that,” he said, noting that the gesture provided relief to employees grappling with job insecurity.
Nyamburi also turned his attention to the government, urging President William Ruto to honour commitments made during Raila Odinga’s funeral regarding the welfare of former staff members.
He noted that their contracts are set to expire in July, after which they were expected to be absorbed into permanent and pensionable terms.
Their future, however, remains uncertain, with Nyamburi warning that without clear government action, many could be left without stable employment following years of service in the former Prime Minister’s office.