Lawyer Paul Mwangi: Sifuna-led ODM faction was Raila’s exit strategy in Ruto pact

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's legal advisor Paul Mwangi / Screengrab

The embattled Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna-led faction was part of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s calculated exit strategy from his political partnership with President William Ruto, lawyer Paul Mwangi has claimed.

Mwangi said that the current wrangles within ODM reflect a broader struggle between two factions that have long existed within Raila’s political orbit, a political-diplomatic wing and a militant wing.

He noted that questions over which group legitimately represents Raila’s political legacy are misplaced, arguing that both factions are valid expressions of his leadership style.

“What you're having today is actually a fight between two Raila factions: a political-diplomatic faction and a militant faction. Raila was a multifaceted political character, and each group represents a different aspect of his legacy,” Mwangi added.

According to Mwangi, the militant faction historically played a strategic role, at times serving as a fallback option whenever political engagements faced challenges.

Mwangi claimed that the faction aligned with Sifuna formed part of that contingency plan.

“Raila would not engage in anything without an exit strategy. If things did not work out, or if there was a clash with the corporate side, he would turn to the militant faction and rally them as a fallback,” he said.

The lawyer said that even in his cooperation with President Ruto, there were built-in alternatives.

On several occasions, Raila came out in defence of Sifuna over remarks regarding the broad-based government.

Raila affirmed that Sifuna has the right to express his opinion, just like any other member of the party.

He urged ODM leaders and supporters to embrace open dialogue and dissent, even if it involves criticism of his leadership.

“If Sifuna has spoken, he has every right to do so. If you disagree with him, say your piece too,” Raila stated.

He said ODM remains a democratic party.

The former Prime Minister stressed that he has not imposed any restrictions on speech within the party.

“I have never told anyone in ODM how they should speak. Even if someone says Baba is old and should go back to Bondo, I have no problem with that; it is the people who will decide,” he said.

Raila added that while members are free to air their views publicly, official party positions are decided through established internal structures.

“Sifuna’s comments, like any other member’s, will be discussed in our party organs. That is where we respond and build consensus,” he explained.