My only crime is opposing Ruto 2027 support plan, says Sifuna

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has claimed that his removal as ODM party Secretary-General is linked to his opposition to alleged plans within the party to support President William Ruto’s re-election.

Sifuna said his stance against any political arrangement backing the President had put him at odds with some leaders.

“As far as internal differences in opinion go, my only crime is that I have refused and I oppose any plans and schemes within the party to support President William Ruto’s re-election,” Sifuna said.

Addressing the press on Thursday following his ouster by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), the senator maintained that his position was informed by his assessment of the country’s current state and the direction of the government.

“I have held, and continue to hold, the firm position that this country cannot afford another five years of this expensive, divisive, incompetent and disastrous route of his administration,” he said.

Sifuna further argued that the country was grappling with economic hardship and governance challenges, adding that leadership accountability should remain a key concern for the opposition.

“Kleptocracy is not a philosophy that an entire nation can give a second chance,” he stated.

His remarks come at a time of growing tensions within ODM following the NEC’s decision to remove him from the powerful administrative role and appoint Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo in an acting capacity pending the election of a substantive office holder.

The developments have exposed emerging divisions within the party, with some leaders defending the NEC decision as constitutional, while others have questioned the process and motives behind the move.

The Nairobi Senator further signaled that his party’s political direction would not change despite his removal from the secretariat.

“I will continue to stand for what I believe is right for the country and for the people who elected us to provide oversight and an alternative voice,” he said.

Sifuna described the decision to oust him as illegal and criticised the process.

“I was not given a chance to defend myself,” he said, asserting that the NEC’s action violated party procedures.

He maintained that he remains committed to ODM and its founding ideals, vowing to continue defending the party.

“Whatever actions I take, I will do so knowing that I have never let down my leader, Raila. We shall fight for ODM; surrender is not an option for us. I remain a loyal member and the duly elected Secretary General of ODM,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of maintaining the party’s identity as a strong opposition force focused on addressing the high cost of living, unemployment and governance concerns.