COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has called on ODM Secretary General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna to foster unity within the party and avoid internal wrangles during this critical transition period following the death of Raila Odinga.
In a statement shared on his official X account on Tuesday, October 28, Atwoli emphasized that the party must remain cohesive as it navigates life without Raila, whom he described as “the glue that united the party.”
“Senator Edwin Sifuna must now show maturity as he leads the ODM party. My advice to Sifuna is this: remain calm, avoid unnecessary political wars now, and honour Raila Odinga’s legacy by standing with the party during this sensitive period,” Atwoli stated.
Atwoli further commended Sifuna for addressing the nation alongside Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, saying it was a sign of wisdom and respect for the Odinga family. He warned against individuals pushing Sifuna to create internal divisions, noting that such actions could derail the party’s unity and weaken its grassroots base.
His remarks come shortly after the ODM Central Management Committee appointed Oburu Odinga as the interim party leader. The committee assured members that the Orange party remains united and will soon begin a nationwide consolidation campaign to reinforce its structures ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Sifuna also announced that ODM will proceed with its 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa on November 15–16. The event will highlight Raila’s immense contribution to Kenya’s democracy and the growth of the party.
Additionally, ODM will hold memorial services across the country in honour of the late Raila Odinga, beginning in Kilifi County on November 2–3, and later in Homa Bay and Migori on November 5–6.
“The party will hold various memorial events across the country to interact with those he inspired,” Sifuna said.
Through these efforts, ODM seeks to preserve Raila’s vision of unity, democracy, and inclusivity.
