Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has dismissed calls urging him to leave the Orange Democratic Movement and form a new party. He insisted he will remain in ODM and fight for the party’s future.
Sifuna spoke on Wednesday, March 11, during a Linda Mwananchi event in Nairobi. He rejected suggestions from supporters who urged him to abandon the party.
“Some of you tell me, Sifuna, leave ODM and form another party,” he said. “We are not leaving ODM because this party belongs to all of us.”
Sifuna Vows to Stay in ODM
Sifuna argued that members who helped build the party cannot simply walk away during internal disputes. He said the party belongs to all Kenyans who supported its growth over the years.
He emphasized that ODM operates as a publicly funded institution and therefore serves a broader national interest. According to him, taxpayers support political parties through public funding, giving citizens a stake in their operations.
“Raila Odinga did not raise cowards,” Sifuna said, referring to ODM leader Raila Odinga. “We will remain in the party even if others want us out.”
Claims of External Interference
The Nairobi Senator accused President William Ruto of interfering in ODM’s internal affairs. He claimed the ruling administration has played a role in divisions within the opposition party.
Sifuna alleged that the president has been funding the Linda Ground faction within ODM. He argued that such support undermines the party’s traditional role as a voice for ordinary citizens.
“ODM today is unrecognizable,” Sifuna said. “We once stood firmly with the people and defended their interests.”
He questioned recent political activities linked to the Linda Ground group. Sifuna claimed the displays shown in public gatherings do not reflect ODM’s historical values.
Dispute Over Secretary General Position
Sifuna’s remarks follow a recent dispute over his position as ODM Secretary General. Party officials removed him from the role and replaced him with Catherine Omanyo.
Sifuna challenged the decision before the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal. He argued that the party leadership did not follow proper procedures during the removal process.
The tribunal issued temporary orders blocking the decision to remove him from office. The ruling halted the implementation of the National Executive Committee resolution made on February 11, 2026.
The tribunal also restrained ODM officials from publishing the resolution in the Kenya Gazette. This order will remain in place until the tribunal hears and determines the case.
The dispute highlights growing tensions within ODM as factions compete for influence. Political observers say the internal battles could affect the party’s strength ahead of future elections.
Sifuna, however, insists he will continue defending his position within the party. He said he remains committed to protecting ODM’s legacy and its role in Kenya’s political landscape.
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