Nairobi, Kenya – August 08, 2025 : The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), long regarded as a dominant political force in Kenya, is now grappling with internal discord that threatens its future. Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna has sparked uproar with public criticism of the party’s leadership, placing him at odds with party leader Raila Odinga and intensifying divisions within the ranks.
Rift Over UDA Deal Splits ODM Leadership
The dispute escalated after Sifuna condemned ODM’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UDA as a betrayal of the party’s founding ideals. In a Citizen TV interview, Sifuna claimed that the agreement, which saw ODM figures appointed to President Ruto’s Cabinet, had failed to yield promised reforms—particularly on issues like extrajudicial killings.
Raila, speaking at a July 2025 delegates’ forum in Kakamega, defended Sifuna’s right to express dissent, underscoring ODM’s democratic foundation. However, his continued endorsement of cooperation with Kenya Kwanza has opened a chasm between party moderates and radicals.
Grassroots Discontent Meets Pragmatic Alliances
Sifuna, who represents Nairobi in the Senate, has refused to join a team reviewing the MoU. He declared it “dead,” warning that aligning with Ruto risks alienating ODM’s five million grassroots supporters. His critics, including Makadara MP George Aladwa, have called for his resignation, claiming he undermines party unity.
Others, like Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, defend the UDA alliance, crediting it with unlocking infrastructure and government appointments for the Western region. Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa is among those who’ve dismissed Sifuna’s position as personal and not representative of the party.
Sifuna’s Stand Gains Support in Western Kenya
Despite mounting pressure, Sifuna remains defiant. He has drawn support from Budalang’i MP Raphael Wanjala and ODM CEO Oduor Ong’wen, who say his candid critique reflects ODM’s historical stance against government excesses. Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has urged calm, warning that internal conflict could fracture Western Kenya’s influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
During a women’s empowerment forum in Trans Nzoia, Sifuna reiterated that he would quit if ODM backs Ruto’s re-election. He emphasized that his loyalty is to the party’s members, not its elected elites.
Online Backlash and National Convention Looms
Sifuna’s hardline stance has triggered sharp debates online. On X (formerly Twitter), some users praise him as a truth-teller; others accuse him of destabilising ODM for personal ambition.
As the party prepares for its National Delegates Convention in October, Sifuna’s future as Secretary-General hangs in the balance. His potential ouster could either solidify the party’s shift toward government collaboration or energize a rebellious faction pushing for a return to opposition politics.
