Mudavadi Feted with Honorary ODM Founder Certificate

By Jacob Ng’etich

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Mombasa – Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi was on Saturday evening awarded an honorary ODM founder’s certificate during a colourful dinner celebrating the party’s 20th anniversary in Mombasa.

Dr. Mudavadi joined hundreds of guests at the reunion of the founding members of the Orange Democratic Movement, an evening marked by nostalgia, camaraderie and renewed commitment to the ideals that shaped the party two decades ago.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary, who also serves as the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, said the gathering offered an opportunity to reflect on ODM’s journey from the 2005 referendum campaigns to its evolution into a political force that has significantly influenced Kenya’s governance. The event was also attended by President William Ruto.

“The absence of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga was deeply felt, reminding us of a leader whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering patriotism steadied our nation through defining moments,” said Mudavadi.

He reflected on Raila’s selflessness, recalling how the former Prime Minister consistently put the country first.

“During the constitution-making process, he stepped back from the push for a parliamentary system but firmly safeguarded the inclusion of devolution, a choice that transformed our governance structure,” he said.

Mudavadi noted that Raila’s pursuit of power always respected constitutionalism, ensuring political decisions were grounded in law.

“When we first held the Kofi Annan talks, Raila insisted that the agreements go through Parliament to give them full legal backing,” he said.

He also commended ODM’s leadership for nurturing a party that has endured where many others have faded.

With ODM now in its maturity stage, Mudavadi urged its leaders to champion pro-people programmes, advance progressive policies and strengthen unity through continuous consultation.

“The Orange spirit remains vibrant, and the journey ahead is filled with promise,” he said.

The dinner brought together former ODM founders and the party’s current elected leaders.

During the event, Dr. Mudavadi, President Ruto and former Cabinet Minister Henry Kosgey were all presented with honorary certificates recognising their roles in the founding of the party.