His departure from the role is a strategic move as he shifts his attention towards his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Odinga's leadership of ODM has been a significant aspect of his political career. Over the past 18 years, he has used the party as a platform to challenge for the presidency and to lead various opposition coalitions.
His decision to step down comes as he aims to dedicate more time and effort to his new political ambition at the continental level.
On Wednesday, the ODM Central Management Committee, which is the party’s top decision-making body, will convene to appoint an interim leader. This meeting is crucial as it will determine who will temporarily take over the reins of the party.
The appointment of an interim leader is part of a broader transition plan that also involves the Elders Council, a body established in April. The council's role is to manage and oversee party operations and ensure a smooth leadership transition during Odinga’s absence.
The Elders Council will hold a meeting on Tuesday, a day before the Central Management Committee's session. This meeting is expected to outline the process for handing over the leadership to someone else.
The council was formed specifically to safeguard ODM from any disruptions or issues that might arise during this period of change.
Recent comments by Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi have shed light on potential candidates for the interim leadership. Amisi has suggested that Edwin Sifuna, a well-known figure within the party, could be a suitable choice to lead ODM temporarily.
According to Amisi, Sifuna could effectively hold the position while Odinga focuses on his campaign for the AUC chairmanship.
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