The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) acting party leader, Dr Oburu Odinga, has publicly defended Secretary General (SG) Edwin Sifuna. Dr Odinga confirmed that Mr Sifuna's recent controversial statements align with the party's official policy.
Dr Odinga, who serves as the Senator for Siaya County and is the elder brother of the late party leader Raila Odinga, spoke during an exclusive interview with NTV.
Background to the Leadership
Dr Odinga stepped into the role of acting party leader following the recent death of his brother, Raila Odinga.
The political landscape in Kenya has been focused on ODM, especially after the passing of its long-serving leader.
Currently, ODM is operating under a "broad-based arrangement" with the government led by President William Ruto. This relationship was formed to stabilise the country following significant demonstrations.
ODM Leader Defends SG
During the interview, Dr Odinga addressed concerns that Mr Sifuna was being isolated by other ODM members for his stance. Some elected members within the party have reportedly called for the SG's removal.
Dr Odinga stated clearly that Mr Sifuna is executing his duties effectively.
"Sifuna is in my view doing a good [job] as our SG," Dr Odinga affirmed.
He stressed that this is not a time for division. "We need all members, including Sifuna".
Clarifying the Party Position
The current friction revolves around the 2027 General Election. ODM members appointed to government roles, such as Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) Opio and Bad, are seen to have endorsed President Ruto for a second term.
However, the party's official position remains undecided. Dr Odinga stated that when Mr Sifuna communicates this ambiguity, he is correct.
READ MORE: What ODM Youth Leader Kasmuel McOure Wants from President Ruto for 2027
The late Raila Odinga had previously made clear that the SG speaks for the party's official position.
"Sifuna was within the right to say so because that is the correct position of the matter. He is not isolated," the acting party leader asserted.
The formal 10-point memorandum signed between ODM and the government governing their broad-based participation does not mention the 2027 election.
Dr Odinga explained that those who have joined the administration, like CSs, are not speaking on behalf of ODM.
The party is currently concentrating on the implementation of its people-oriented issues agreed upon in the memorandum.
Call for Unity
Dr Odinga urged members to remain calm and avoid infighting. He noted that political protagonists often seek to exploit internal divisions.
He affirmed that the party's main objective is to strengthen its structures. ODM aims to be a formidable political force going into the next election cycle.
The party is also demanding the release of political parties' funding. ODM is owed more than 12 to 13 billion shillings, which is crucial for strengthening its presence and branches across the country.
As acting party leader, Dr Odinga stated that his focus is on bringing unity to the party. He wants the young people to feel comfortable and included.
Dr Odinga currently holds the interim leadership role until the National Governing Council (NGC) meets for confirmation. The NDC is scheduled for January 2027.
The party’s 20th-anniversary celebrations are rescheduled for the 14th to 16th of November in Mombasa.
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