This seat was given to me by my late father, Sifuna says after ouster

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has vowed to continue speaking out on national issues despite his removal as Senate Minority Whip, saying he will not be silenced by the decision.

Speaking after the leadership changes, Sifuna likened the move to being stripped of something he had inherited, but maintained that it would not deter him from expressing his views.

"We will continue speaking about these things even if they punish us. They are now taking away that which was given to me by my late father," Sifuna said.

He said Kenya's challenges stem from deeper systemic issues that require urgent attention.

"We have a software problem in this country and we must fix it," he said.

Quoting the Bible, Sifuna said he would respond to the setback with grace.

"It is Jesus who said when someone takes your coat, give him your shirt too," he said.

Sifuna thanked the Minority leadership and members for the support they had accorded him during his tenure as Minority Whip.

"I thank the leadership and members of the minority side for the support they have given me ever since I served," he said.

He also congratulated Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, who replaced him as Senate Minority Whip, expressing confidence in his successor.

"I am happy and I want to congratulate my younger brother Eddy Oketch. It is now going to be his job to whip members so that we can raise quorum," Sifuna said.

The leadership changes come amid ongoing political realignments within the opposition, with Oketch now taking over the responsibility of mobilising senators and ensuring attendance for House business.