By Staff Writer | Wajir Today | Thursday, 18 September 2025
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga is set to visit Wajir on Saturday, 20 September, in a move aimed at rallying party supporters and strengthening ODM’s presence in Northeastern region ahead of its 20th anniversary celebrations next month.
The Orange party has announced that it will mark two decades of what it describes as resilience, sacrifice, and commitment to democracy and justice with a three-day event in Mombasa from 10 to 12 October.
The celebrations will feature a Youth Summit bringing together young leaders, a Women Convention highlighting the contribution of women to democratic struggles, and a Youth Concert showcasing talent and creativity within the Orange Movement.
During his Wajir visit, Odinga is expected to address hundreds of delegates drawn from Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera counties. His speeches will focus on the party’s ideals and its renewed efforts to consolidate support in the region.
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi will lead local initiatives to welcome Odinga. Party officials say they anticipate a strong turnout of ODM supporters, signalling renewed energy in a region where political alignments are shifting ahead of the 2027 general election.
The visit is seen as strategically significant, as Northeastern region has emerged as an increasingly important political battleground. In recent years, national parties have intensified outreach in the region, recognising its growing voter base and its influence in shaping national debates on security, devolution, and resource allocation.
ODM’s engagement is likely to test its ability to build alliances in counties where local clan dynamics often determine political outcomes.
Analysts note that Odinga’s presence in Wajir underscores his continued determination to remain a central figure in national politics, despite stepping back from daily opposition battles.
His call for unity and justice is expected to resonate with residents who have long complained of historical marginalisation.
For ODM, the Wajir stop provides a platform to demonstrate national reach. For local leaders, it offers an opportunity to align with a national party and amplify regional concerns on the national stage.
Odinga’s visit is expected to inject momentum into ODM activities in the region and set the tone for the party’s upcoming anniversary, a milestone that the party leadership insists will not only celebrate the past but also chart its future direction.
