Sifuna: ODM identity must be protected as Raila instructed

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has moved to quell internal tensions within the ODM, vowing unwavering loyalty to the party and to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s legacy. 

Sifuna declared that he will “never betray ODM or Raila Odinga’s principles” and insisted on unity as the party prepares for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during a party event in Mombasa, Sifuna acknowledged disagreements within ODM ranks but maintained that the guiding instruction from Raila remains clear: protect and preserve the party’s identity.

“I know right now many things are being said by everyone in the party, but what we can all agree on is what Raila told us. He told us to maintain the party so that in 2027 we produce our own candidate,” he said.

He dismissed claims that ODM’s political strength rests solely on Raila, adding that the party has several capable leaders who could carry its presidential flag.

“If today we decide to endorse our party leader, Oburu, Abdulswamad, or those other deputy party leaders, or even myself, we will surely win,” Sifuna said.

He dismissed assertions by President William Ruto that Raila would have been the only worthy competitor in 2027.

 “Those claiming only Raila was a strong candidate are wrong," he said.

The SG also appeared to caution against internal voices aligned with the government-backed “broad-based” initiative, insisting it does not supersede ODM’s identity or structure.

“The so-called broad-based government is not a party, has no candidates, and should not be used to sow confusion,” he said.

Sifuna revealed that he personally drafted the ODM-UDA working agreement and stressed that it does not amount to a coalition agreement. 

According to him, the pact was meant to serve a specific transitional purpose and should not be used to dilute ODM’s brand.

“I am the one who wrote that ODM-UDA agreement, and I know what is in it. This agreement does not constitute a coalition agreement with UDA,” he clarified. 

“Raila told us to keep this identity, so let us keep our identity, yangu ni Chungwa (Orange)."

With by-elections scheduled for November 27, Sifuna said ODM candidates will appear on the ballot under the party’s orange symbol, warning party members against confusing voters by invoking the broad-based arrangement.

“Hakuna candidate for broad-based. Broad-based is not a party; it does not exist anywhere,” he stated.

"We should not bring confusion to voters unless we want our candidates to be defeated.”

Sifuna reaffirmed that ODM remains a strong, independent, and organised political force and urged leaders to act responsibly, insisting the party’s future is secure so long as unity prevails.

“We will do everything possible to keep ODM united,” he said. “Our vision is clear: to guard our identity and march to 2027 stronger than ever.”