A fresh storm is brewing within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following remarks by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna that have reignited internal tensions and drawn sharp criticism from party members and allies. Speaking at a recent rally, Uriri MP Mark Nyamita lashed out at Sifuna, saying, “Sifuna said the agenda of removing Ruto is bigger than the dualling of the Nairobi-Malaba road. He was born and raised in Nairobi. He doesn’t know the problems those travelling to Western Kenya face.”

Nyamita’s comments reflect growing frustration among the ODM legislators who feel Sifuna’s rhetoric is disconnected from grassroots realities. His recent dismissal of the Raila-Ruto Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as “dead” has further alienated sections of the party, with critics accusing him of undermining ODM’s strategic positioning.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna at a past event

Despite the backlash, Orange Democratic Movement party leader Raila Odinga has stood firmly behind Sifuna, defending his right to speak freely. “If Sifuna has spoken, let him speak. Everyone is entitled to their view. That is democracy,” Raila said during a delegate conference in Kakamega. He emphasized that internal debate is healthy and necessary for party growth, adding, “Sifuna is right and speaks for the party,” in response to claims of confusion within the Azimio affiliated outfit.

ODM leader Raila On Sifuna’s remarks

Raila’s defense underscores a deeper ideological divide within the Orange party, between those pushing for pragmatic cooperation with the government and those advocating for a more confrontational stance. While some leaders have called for Sifuna’s resignation, others, like Budalang’i MP Raphael Wanjala, have warned against tribal-based attacks and urged unity.

As the Raila-led party grapples with its identity and future direction, Sifuna’s bold stance may either fracture the party further or catalyze a long-overdue reckoning with its internal contradictions. Either way, the battle lines are clearly drawn.