Speaking during the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa on Thursday, November 13, Arati said that ODM is still strong and can rise again to form the next government.
Governor Arati, who also serves as ODM’s deputy party leader, said the passing of Raila was a big loss that left many members heartbroken and uncertain about the party’s future.
However, he told the crowd that ODM must not give up, reminding them that Raila’s vision of justice, equality, and democracy must live on through their unity.
“There is uncertainty because of our party leader’s death,” Arati said.
“But we will be the last people to destroy the trust that Kenyans have given us. ODM will not die before 2027 or 2032.”
Arati warned party officials against internal fights and betrayal, saying that divisions could destroy the movement that Raila built over many years.
“If you are the one trying to destroy the party, we must defeat you,” he declared, receiving applause from ODM supporters.
The Kisii governor also encouraged the party to grow beyond its traditional strongholds and to attract new supporters from all parts of Kenya. He said that ODM has a strong foundation and should not be afraid to dream big.
“My brother Sifuna, stand firm,” Arati said in a direct message to ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
“Even from within this room, I am confident we can produce a president. ODM has what it takes.”
Arati’s remarks came at a time when the party is facing growing pressure to identify a new leader following Raila’s death. Many members have been calling for calm and patience as they mourn and reflect on the next steps.
He urged party members not to abandon the movement, saying ODM should continue to walk together as a family.
“Nobody will leave the party. We will walk together closely. If one of us stumbles, we will help them rise again,” he said.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, who also spoke during the celebration, said that while ODM remains strong, it must take time to rebuild and nurture new leadership.
He admitted that Raila was the only leader within ODM who had national appeal and that his absence has left a huge gap.
Mbadi advised the party to use the coming years to prepare a new generation of leaders who can carry the ODM dream forward.
He said ODM’s realistic chance of producing a presidential candidate could come in 2032 if it works hard and stays united.
“ODM will never die,” Arati said firmly.
“We will either form the next government or be part of it.”
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