Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party secretary general Edwin Sifuna has received backing from unlikely sources amid questions about his position in the party regarding its work relationship with President William Ruto's government.
In what could be another script in the unending drama of Kenyan politics, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, a close ally to President William Ruto, claimed that Sifuna’s position in the party would not be under any immediate threat after he seemingly appeared to change tack on his criticism of Ruto and the broad-based government.
“Well done, Sifuna, for retracing your steps in atoning your sins and for pledging loyalty to the ODM Party and the broad-based government led by President Ruto this in honour of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga,” he noted.
Adding: “For now, you are forgiven and your Secretary General position in the ODM Party is secure!!”
Sifuna has been known to be a fierce critic of Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, hitting out at the government over its failure to address issues such as the high cost of living and respect of human rights.
In some instances, the Nairobi senator went to the extent of criticising Ruto in his presence, noting that his remarks had the blessings of Raila.
However, the untimely death of Raila sparked uncertainty in the party, with Sifuna’s position as the SG seen being questioned over his stance on ODM's relationship with Ruto's government.
Nonetheless, Sifuna had disclosed on Monday that ODM would stick with Ruto until the 2027 General Election, citing the 10-point agenda signed by ODM and Ruto's UDA party back in May 2025.
ODM in 2027
The disclosure came after a meeting by ODM’s Central Management Committee, amid rumours of a looming succession battle following Raila’s demise.
“We reiterate the commitment of the party to the broad-based government until 2027, a relationship guided by the 10-point agenda entered into for the sake of peace and stability of the country,” noted part of the statement read by Sifuna.
Raila’s deal with Ruto had been a massive talking point, with top party officials clashing over the political partnership at Raila’s funeral on Sunday, October 19.
While others expressed that the party was under firm instructions to remain in the broad-based government and potentially back Ruto in 2027, SG Sifuna noted that it was Raila’s wish for the party to front a candidate in the upcoming polls.
