Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, is increasingly positioning herself as a prominent political figure, igniting discussions about the future of the Odinga political legacy. During the final state funeral ceremony for her father at Jaramogi Oginga University in Bondo on October 19, 2025, Winnie delivered impactful speeches, showcasing attributes widely seen as hallmarks of a rising political star. Observers noted her bravery, eloquence, direct communication style, boldness, and charisma, recognizing her as a diligent student of her father's political school of thought, which shaped Kenya's political landscape for over three decades.

Her emergence is particularly significant as she attempts to carve her own political narrative, a move seen by many as pivotal to either solidifying the Odinga dynasty or signaling challenges in sustaining its influence without Raila Odinga. Winnie’s political engagement is not new; on November 9, 2022, she stirred considerable debate by assessing the relationship between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and President William Ruto’s broad-based government, controversially calling it “complicated.”

Amid internal divisions within ODM following Raila’s passing, Winnie Odinga has advocated for a National Delegates Convention (NDC), emphasizing the need for party members to collectively determine ODM’s future leadership and political trajectory. Her proactive stance demonstrates a determined effort to navigate the party’s post-Raila era, positioning herself as a potential leader capable of sustaining the dynasty’s political relevance.