- Edwin Sifuna issued a firm stance on the direction of ODM during the burial of the former party boss, Raila Odinga, and drew cheers from a supportive crowd
- The Nairobi senator recounted how Raila led him in the political space and shared his last instructions for the party ahead of the 2027 General Election
- Governor Gladys Wanga and a section of party leaders differed from him as they continued to affirm loyalty to President William Ruto
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Siaya: ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna has firmly rejected calls to embrace the broad-based government, distancing himself from fellow party members who have expressed willingness to work with President William Ruto.
Source: Facebook
His remarks came during the burial ceremony of former ODM party leader and former prime minister Raila Odinga, held on Sunday, October 19, at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo.
Addressing a cheerful and emotional crowd, Sifuna paid tribute to Raila, acknowledging the late leader’s profound influence on his political journey.
He recounted a personal moment when he and Raila once discussed what the former prime minister might say about his legacy if he were to pass away before him.
The reflection underscored the depth of their relationship and the weight of Raila’s mentorship.
Will Edwin Sifuna support broadbased government?
Sifuna used the platform to caution against divisive narratives within ODM, urging unity and fidelity to Raila’s final instructions.
“I will not be among those who bring down Raila Amolo Odinga’s party,” he declared passionately. “ODM is one of Baba’s greatest legacies, and I will do everything in my power to keep it united—even in the face of open provocation.”
He emphasised that Raila had spoken clearly to the nation on September 22, 2025, outlining ODM’s path forward.
According to Sifuna, also the Nairobi senator, Raila had instructed the party to prepare for the 2027 elections and had not endorsed any deviation from ODM’s core identity.
“Let no one put words in the mouth of a man who now rests,” Sifuna said, referencing Raila’s own words: “Who has told you?”—a phrase that drew applause from the audience.
Sifuna’s remarks were opposed by other ODM leaders present at the funeral, including national chairperson Gladys Wanga and Raila’s sister, Rose Odinga.
Wanga reiterated that Raila had left the party firmly within the broad-based government, cautioning against any attempts to distort his message.
“Raila gave us clear instructions. We are in a broad-based government, yes—but don’t bring confusion,” she said.
The tension within ODM has been mounting, with some leaders calling for Sifuna’s removal over his resistance to the broad-based government arrangement.
However, his stance received backing from some leaders and allies, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
Together, Sifuna and other ODM figures pledged to rally under the Kenya Moja movement, advocating for democracy, unity, and the will of the people.
What did Raila say about ODM-UDA pact?
In Raila’s final public address along Mombasa Road in Machakos county, he emphasised the importance of ODM’s unity and commitment to the 10-point agenda under the ODM-UDA memorandum of understanding.
Source: Twitter
He reminded party members that they had collectively agreed to work together until 2027 and cautioned against making premature decisions about the upcoming elections.
Raila stressed that no formal resolutions had been passed regarding the party’s electoral strategy, urging leaders to avoid committing ODM to any direction without thorough internal discussions.
As ODM navigates internal divisions and external pressures, Sifuna’s defiance signals a broader struggle over the party’s future direction—and the enduring influence of Raila’s final words.
What else do you need to know about Raila’s death and ODM leadership?
What caused Raila Odinga’s death?
Meanwhile, the former prime minister and opposition leader died of cardiac arrest on Wednesday, October 15, while undergoing treatment in India.
He collapsed during a walk around the hospital and was later pronounced dead in the ICU after resuscitation efforts failed.
According to his brother, Senator Oburu Oginga, Raila had developed a blood clot that became difficult to manage locally, and the medication he was receiving had caused increased fatigue.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
