• Dr. Ndonye says that Babu Owino has the potential to rise as a future Luo kingpin, but he must also understand what defines the Luo political spirit. According to Dr Ndonye, Babu Owino must prove to the Luo people that he is capable and can lead them in alignment with their rebellious nature.

In the current political climate following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, the question of political kingpinship succession within the Luo community has become central to Kenya’s national debate. 

Speaking on the TalkChat Podcast, political analyst Dr. Michael Ndonye stated that President William Ruto is the acting Luo kingpin not by virtue of tribal affiliation, but through political proximity to Raila in his final days.

According to Dr. Ndonye, Raila’s final political actions paved the way for this unexpected shift. In his last days, Raila formed a close working relationship with President Ruto, moving from opposition to government cooperation.

Whether consciously or unconsciously, Dr Ndonye argues that Raila indirectly transferred political influence to Ruto, leaving him in a position to act as the Luo kingpin until a new leader emerges from within the community.

Though Kisumu Senator Oburu Odinga is now the acting Orange Democratic Movement  (ODM) party leader, Dr. Ndonye argues that he is not the right person to take over political kingpinship or propel the party forward.

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Dr. Ndonye stated that Oburu’s elevation is largely ceremonial, rooted in respect and honor of the late Raila Odinga rather than political capability. He noted that Oburu is not a politician and is unlikely to thrive in competitive national politics. 

“Oburu Odinga is not a politician, and we are not likely to see him excel in politics; according to me, he is retiring,” said Dr. Ndonye.

According to Dr. Ndonye, ODM should consider transitioning to youthful leadership that can energize the party base and propel the party forward.

“When the leadership of ODM finally sits down to plan the party’s future, if they truly envision it going beyond the current generation, then they will have to choose a young person to propel the party to the next level,” said Dr. Ndonye.

According to Dr. Ndonye, the Luo nation is a rebellious nation, and whoever is to succeed Raila Odinga as the next Luo kingpin must embody that same spirit of rebellion.

“Rebellion is what keeps the Luo nation unique from other nations in this country. The Luo are not a conforming nation; they are always happy when they are going against the tide. So, whoever wants to be a Luo kingpin must first understand that,” said Dr. Ndonye.

Dr. Ndonye recalled how Raila first carved his own path by rebelling against his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, a bold act that cemented his legitimacy and independence.

Among potential successors, Dr. Ndonye sees promise in Embakasi East MP Babu Owino  but only if he can align with the community’s rebellious spirit and prove his capacity to lead.

“Babu Owino has potential, but he must show the Luo people that he understands what defines their political soul,” said Dr. Ndonye.

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