Aladwa Says Winnie Odinga to Be Proposed as ODM Deputy Party Leader

Makadara MP George Aladwa has announced plans to propose EALA legislator Winnie Odinga for the position of Deputy Party Leader within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

Speaking on Saturday, January 3, Aladwa said the process would begin with Winnie’s co-option into the Nairobi delegates’ committee, where she would take up the slot previously held by her late father, Raila Odinga.

According to the ODM lawmaker, the party also intends to expand the number of deputy party leaders from three to four, creating space for Winnie to occupy the additional position.

“Raila Odinga served as a Nairobi delegate, and I will propose that Winnie Odinga steps into that role. We will also push for ODM to have four deputy party leaders,” Aladwa said.

Aladwa dismissed concerns that Winnie’s elevation could fuel perceptions of the Odinga family exerting undue influence within the party. 

He argued that Winnie should be judged on her individual merit rather than her family background.

“Winnie Odinga is her own person. She is not Oburu Odinga or Ruth Odinga. The fact that they come from the same family should not bar her from serving the party,” he stated.

Winnie’s uncle, Oburu Odinga, currently serves as an ODM party leader, while her aunt, Ruth Odinga, sits on the party’s Central Management Committee.

In August 2024, ODM created a third Deputy Party Leader position following a Central Management Committee meeting chaired by the late Raila Odinga. 

Governors Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Nassir, alongside Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, were subsequently appointed to the roles.

The deputy positions fell vacant after Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya were appointed to President William Ruto’s Cabinet.

Meanwhile, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was appointed ODM National Chairperson, replacing John Mbadi.