Luo Council of Elder chairman Ker Odungi Randa addressing the media in Kisumu. Faith Matete Elders from the Luo community have called for unity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
They have urged members and leaders to rally behind the party’s ideals as it charts its future political direction.
Speaking during a press briefing, Luo Council of Elders Chairman Ker Odungi Randa said the party remains a key political vehicle for the Luo community and should be protected from divisions that could weaken its influence in national politics.
He noted that the party was built through the efforts of leader Raila Odinga, who spent decades mobilising support across the country and establishing a strong national political movement.
Ker Randa said the legacy of ODM should continue under the stewardship of the party’s leadership, including Oburu Odinga, calling on members to remain united in order to strengthen the party’s bargaining power in national leadership.
“The party has played a critical role in shaping Kenya’s politics, and our leaders and supporters must remain united to protect that legacy,” he said.
He traced the political roots of the Luo community to independence-era leader Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, whose leadership and reliance on elders helped unite the community and inspire generations of leaders.
Ker Randa said the Luo community has historically been guided by values such as discipline, respect, decorum and eloquence, which have enabled its leaders to play influential roles both within Kenya and across East Africa.
He urged leaders and supporters to uphold these values while working together to strengthen ODM and maintain unity within the community.
At the same time, the leaders condemned what they described as harassment of former Cabinet minister Raphael Tuju following the alleged forced recovery of his property over a debt dispute.
He criticised the manner in which the issue was handled, saying the use of force by police officers to recover property at night was humiliating and unacceptable.
“If there is a financial dispute, it should be handled through lawful and dignified procedures without humiliating a senior citizen who has served the country,” he said.
The leaders said they stand in solidarity with Tuju and expressed hope that the matter would be resolved fairly.
They also called for peace and unity among all communities in the country to support development and stability.
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