Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has reaffirmed that ODM Party will remain in the broad-based government despite Raila Odinga’s death.

Addressing the press at the former Prime Minister’s Opoda home in Bondo, shortly after arriving to assess the burial preparations, Wandayi reiterated the party’s commitment to continued partnership with President William Ruto.

Wandayi stated that ODM will work with President Ruto beyond 2027.

“Baba has left us in government led by President Ruto and that is where we are going to stay till the end,” Wandayi said.

“I can dare say with no fear of contradiction that we shall walk step by step with President Ruto to the end, now and beyond 2027,” he reasserted.

While acknowledging the appointment of Dr. Oburu Odinga as ODM’s interim party leader, Wandayi confirmed his intention to propose that the Siaya County Senator be formerly elected as Raila’s replacement.

He conveyed his confidence in Oburu’s capacity to steer the party in accordance with the broad-based arrangements.

CS Wandayi also took the opportunity to appreciate President Ruto for his decision to accord the late Raila Odinga a state funeral, commensurate with his stature and contribution to the nation.

“I want to thank President Ruto for making a proclamation to accord Raila Odinga a state funeral with full military honors. Even Jaramogi who was the first Vice President of Kenya was never accorded such honour when he passed on in 1994,” Wandayi noted.