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Raila Junior out to inherit his late father's Nairobi political base
Raila Junior addresses guests during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Raila Amolo Odinga Mausoleum at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, on July 20, 2026.
What you need to know:
- There have been calls for Raila Junior to vie for the Embakasi South parliamentary seat.
- Raila Junior's entry into active politics has already attracted support from several leaders.
Raila Odinga Junior, the son of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has pledged to anchor his political career in Nairobi County as he seeks to inherit his father's political strongholds.
Raila Junior has appealed to the communities that formed the backbone of his father's political support over the years to rally behind him as he embarks on his political journey.
For some time now, he has been meeting various groups of residents at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation offices, which also house the offices of his late father and grandfather, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
Last week, he hosted residents and community groups from Kibra Constituency, which his father represented in Parliament for more than 20 years.
"Kibra is home to people from all communities, and they should not be divided along ethnic lines. I have listened to them, and I will begin visiting them soon," Raila Junior said, as some residents urged him to contest the Kibra parliamentary seat.
There have also been calls for Raila Junior to vie for the Embakasi South parliamentary seat, where he has also received a warm reception from various community groups.
Oburu Oginga's backing
"I will work with everyone, including women, men, youth and persons living with disabilities, to improve the lives of our people. The health and education sectors are fundamental in building a strong society, and we will ensure they are strengthened," he added.
Raila Junior said his doors remain open for residents to engage and consult with the Odinga family on issues affecting them.
He also revealed that he is focusing on initiating projects in Kibra, Lang'ata and Embakasi South aimed at empowering young people, women and senior citizens.
His entry into active politics has already attracted support from several leaders, including his uncle, Dr Oburu Oginga, and Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili.
In a recent interview with the Daily Nation, Dr Oginga said Raila Junior has his full blessing to contest any elective political seat.
Dr Oginga was a close political ally of the late Raila Odinga, and the two worked together for decades following the death of their father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
Makadara Member of Parliament and ODM Nairobi Branch Chairperson George Aladwa said Raila Junior and other aspiring leaders are welcome to pursue their political ambitions within the party, insisting that ODM has room for everyone.
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