ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has pledged to keep the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) united following the death of its long-time leader, Raila Odinga. Speaking during Raila’s burial ceremony at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, on October 19, Sifuna reaffirmed his commitment to preserving Raila’s legacy through party unity.
“Because ODM is one of your biggest legacies, I, as Sifuna, will do everything in my power to keep this party together even in the face of provocation,” Sifuna declared, receiving loud cheers from mourners.
He urged ODM leaders to take time to reflect and listen to the millions of party supporters before making key political decisions. “This is not the time to push divisive narratives within ODM. ODM is a party for everyone. We as leaders should show unity so that other members can follow suit,” he added.
Before Raila’s passing, Sifuna had stirred controversy within the party by opposing the ODM leader’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with President William Ruto’s government. In August, he even hinted at leaving the party if it endorsed Ruto’s 2027 bid. However, Sifuna has since softened his stance, stressing that he would not contribute to the party’s downfall.
Other ODM leaders, including Raila’s sister Ruth Odinga and Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati, echoed similar sentiments of unity, emphasizing the need to safeguard Raila’s political legacy. Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina also assured supporters that ODM would remain united under the broad-based government framework, promising to uphold Raila’s principles.
Meanwhile, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherriff Nassir boldly declared that ODM’s focus for 2027 was clear: “We will either be in government or be the government, but not in opposition.”
As ODM charts its path forward, Sifuna’s call for unity could prove crucial in maintaining stability and preserving the party’s influence in Kenya’s political landscape.
