Days after Raila's funeral, a quiet but intense struggle for succession is already beginning as other political leaders endorse themselves.
After more than thirty years of unparalleled influence, Raila Odinga's death has left a profound vacuum in Luo politics.
Both new and old faces are hoping to replace him.
Including Governors James Orengo and Gladys Wanga, Treasury CS John Mbadi, Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Raila Odinga Jr.
Many see the recent appointment of Raila Jr. as the head of the Odinga family as a prelude to his future political position.
However, Mbadi, a longtime ODM chairman and one of Raila's most dependable allies, appears to be the center of attention right now.
During Raila's funeral, President Ruto shocked the mourners by praising Mbadi and claiming that the Treasury chief had contributed to economic stabilization.
"This man fits the bill, doesn't he?" Ruto inquired, causing muttering among the audience.
Mama Ida Odinga, Raila's widow, has also publicly supported Mbadi, claiming that Raila personally developed his leadership skills.
She implied that Raila had already selected his political heir when she said, "He doesn't need any more training."
The race is still open, though. While veterans like Orengo and Wanga command respect from the grassroots, younger leaders like Babu Owino draw in younger followers.
There won't be any coronations in the post-Raila era, according to analysts.
Rather, as new voices emerge, Luo politics will undergo a period of contestation, redefinition, and potentially division.
According to one MP, Luo land leadership frequently adheres to the spirit of Juogi.
They claim that the true successor will not simply be chosen; rather, he or she must naturally arise and gain the support and confidence of the community.
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