Edwin Sifuna, the Nairobi Senator and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General, appeared on Citizen TV's The Explainer program on February 3, 2026, hosted by Yvonne Okwara.
It was a highly anticipated and explosive interview, marking his return to the media after months of relative silence amid internal ODM turmoil, speculation about his role, and debates over the party's future direction following the death of Raila Odinga.
The interview drew massive attention across Kenya, with clips and reactions flooding social media (especially X).
It addressed key issues like party leadership changes, potential coalitions with the government, Raila's legacy, and Sifuna's personal stance.
Key Highlights from the Interview
1. On ODM Leadership and Oburu Oginga: Sifuna distanced himself from the meeting that installed Dr. Oburu Oginga (Raila's brother) as interim party leader, stating he was not privy to it.
He was part of the delegation retrieving Raila's body from Mumbai, India, at the time and questioned the procedural validity of the process, insisting only party members can legitimately choose leaders.
2. On Potential ODM-UDA/ Government Alignment: He strongly opposed any "broad-based government" entanglement with President William Ruto, calling it misrepresented and warning that supporting Ruto would be the "surest way for ODM to end up in opposition" after 2027, as "he is going home."
Sifuna emphasized Raila's last public instructions: ODM must prepare to field its own presidential candidate in 2027. He criticized rushed moves without broad consultation.
3. On Party Rallies and Funding: He raised concerns about recent ODM-branded rallies allegedly funded by parallel/secret sources outside official party coffers, suggesting external influences and widening internal splits.
4. On Raila's Death and Legacy: Sifuna got emotional discussing Raila's passing, expressing anger over mismanagement (e.g., at the airport and Kasarani incidents leading to avoidable deaths).
He urged peace, respect for Ida Odinga, and adherence to what Raila would have wanted, rejecting mayhem or disruptions.
5. Personal Position and Exit Rumors: He dismissed claims of planning to quit ODM or join other parties, like the one linked to Rigathi Gachagua, asserting no one can force him out—he remains committed as a member even without an official title.
When asked about being a "mole," he laughed it off, saying he's "too big" for that role.
The interview was fiery and unfiltered, with Sifuna defending Raila's instructions publicly while critiquing what he sees as betrayals of ODM's opposition roots and principles. Viewers praised his honesty and directness, though some noted tensions with the host's approach.
Comments
Post a Comment