This decision comes as Odinga shifts his focus toward his campaign for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC). However, the reasons behind this appointment and the limitations placed on Nyong'o’s responsibilities have raised eyebrows among party members and observers.
The appointment of Nyong'o seems to be more complicated than it first appears. Reports indicate that just before the public announcement was made, there was a significant change in the party's plans.
A source who attended the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting revealed that there was confusion about Odinga's original proposal to have an interim leader. Instead, the party decided to elevate Nyong'o but restricted his role to chairing the Central Committee meetings.
During the meeting, the source noted that they arrived late only to find that the NEC had already overruled Odinga's idea for an interim appointment.
The committee was then forced to reassess Nyong'o's role to prevent any potential political fallout should Odinga not secure the AUC position.
“I walked in and asked about the press statement that named Nyong'o as the party leader. It was evident that a major decision had been made without my input,” the source said.
In response to the shifting dynamics, the committee decided to clarify Nyong'o's role. The official statement released by the party read:
“In light of the grueling campaign schedule of our Party Leader, he has designated H.E. Peter Anyang Nyong'o, the Governor of Kisumu, to chair any necessary meetings of the Central Committee during his absence.”
This statement highlighted the fact that while Nyong'o would chair meetings, he would not have the full leadership responsibilities that come with being the party leader.
The decision also caused friction within the party, particularly among the women’s league, who had been planning a celebratory event in Nairobi to honor Odinga. With the sudden change, those plans were abruptly shelved, leading to further discontent among party members.
In the wake of these developments, ODM took to social media to clarify Nyong'o's position, stating,
“The ODM Party Leader is @RailaOdinga. However, due to the nature of the AUC Chairperson’s Campaign which requires his direct involvement, he has designated Prof. @AnyangNyongo to chair meetings of the Central Management Committee.”
This clarification aimed to quell any unrest within the party regarding Nyong'o's appointment and role.
There is uncertainty about how long it will take to fill the party leadership position if Odinga successfully secures the AUC chairmanship.
Key figures such as Siaya Governor James Orengo and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga are among the potential candidates vying for the leadership role.
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