Linus Kaikai Alleges Why Oburu Odinga Cannot Be Compared to the Late Raila Odinga

Senior journalist Linus Kaikai has strongly challenged the idea that Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga can step into the shoes of his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. 

Kaikai argued that Oburu lacks the political gravitas, strategic acumen, and nationwide influence that Raila wielded over decades in Kenyan politics.

The comments were made against the backdrop of growing instability within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following the death of Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025, in India at the age of 80 due to cardiac arrest.

While appearing on Citizen TV, Linus Kaikai — Editorial Director at Royal Media Services — offered a candid evaluation of ODM’s situation in the post-Raila era. 

He drew a clear distinction between the two brothers as he analysed the party’s diminished bargaining power with the government.

“Unfortunately, Oburu will be judged in comparison to Raila Odinga. Raila Odinga was influential and played power politics without mentioning the word. All presidents had to find out what he was up to." Said Kaikai

Kaikai noted that the much-talked-about 10-point agenda, which was said to form the basis of ODM’s dealings with President William Ruto’s administration, “could not survive the passing of Raila Odinga.” 

He explained that in political negotiations, “the strength on both sides must be equal or at least balanced.”

“With Raila no longer around, President Ruto will now have the upper hand and will largely dictate terms as he wishes,” he added. “The 10-point agenda is as dead as a dodo. The sooner they stop investing time and energy in it, the better.”