Siaya Governor James Orengo has expressed concern over any potential exit of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), noting that it would be a great loss.
Speaking on Wednesday, October 8, during an appearance on NTV, Orengo voiced his reservations on any potential exit by the vocal SG amid Sifuna’s role in the rising Kenya Moja faction.
“It would be a great loss not to have Edwin Sifuna as the Secretary-General of ODM. He's a wonderful individual,” noted Orengo.
He credited Sifuna for his role in attracting more followers to the already popular party but acknowledged that ODM’s involvement in President William Ruto’s government could lead to ideological differences that might cause some members to defect.
“ODM is not a party that belongs to the praise and worship formation. We have elements that can speak up and set truth to power, inasmuch as we are partly in government,” Orengo said.
Orengo’s sentiments came as ODM prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary with heightened scrutiny on party leader Raila Odinga and his plans for the party in the 2027 General Election.
Sifuna, known to be a trusted confidant of Raila, has split opinion on the perception around ODM, with his constant criticism of Ruto’s administration seen as contrary to the broad-based arrangement between his party leader and the President.
His announcement that he would quit ODM if the party supported Ruto in the 2027 polls caused ripples in the group, sparking debate in political circles.
Sifuna’s polarising role in ODM was further compounded by the emergence of the Kenya Moja faction, which comprises disgruntled members of ODM and leaders who were once allied to Ruto in Kenya Kwanza.
Sifuna has been credited as one of the leaders of the faction and has even been touted as the group’s potential Presidential candidate in the 2027 polls.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Sifuna and ODM in general, Orengo conveyed his belief that ODM would survive even post-Raila, but only if it stuck to its core beliefs.
He cited key principles such as social justice, equity, and democracy as pillars by which ODM could cling and maintain its identity.
“It all depends on what we do. If we keep it progressive, then it can survive. If it’s based on individuals based on personalities, then ODM may not really survive the test of time and be a great party and celebrate a centenary as ANC has done in South Africa,” he opined.
