Breaking News: Edwin Sifuna Issues Bold Pledge to Save ODM from Collapse After Raila’s Death

In the wake of the passing of ODM leader Raila Odinga, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has addressed speculation about his position within the party, pledging to preserve unity and uphold Raila’s legacy.

Speaking at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, Sifuna declared his commitment to keeping ODM together, even in the face of internal disagreements and external pressures.

“ODM is one of Raila’s greatest legacies. I, Edwin Sifuna, will do everything in my power to keep this party united, no matter the provocation, and you know what we are talking about,” Sifuna said.

He urged party leaders to prioritize listening to the grassroots membership over political squabbles. 

“This is not the time for divisive narratives within ODM. We must demonstrate unity so that the rest of the party can follow suit,” he added.

Sifuna’s remarks come after a period of controversy regarding his stance on Raila’s memorandum of understanding with the government. 

In August, he had suggested he might leave the party if it supported President William Ruto’s 2027 presidential bid. However, following Raila’s death, the Secretary-General emphasized that he would not allow his actions to contribute to ODM’s decline.

“I will not be part of anything that weakens this party. Let us remain quiet, listen to our members, and honor what they want,” Sifuna said.

The senator’s speech received an enthusiastic reception from mourners, with his name earning some of the loudest cheers during the funeral ceremony. 

His call for unity aligns with similar pledges made by ODM leaders, including the late Raila’s sister Ruth Odinga and party deputy leader Simba Arati.

Despite these affirmations, questions remain about how the party will navigate internal divisions, particularly among those who opposed the broad-based government. 

At the same event, Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina reassured Kenyans that ODM would remain united under the broad-based government. 

“Many expect ODM to fragment into factions, but as long as God gives us time, we will follow Baba’s footsteps. His last message was to stay together,” Ole Kina said.

Meanwhile, ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Sherriff Nassir declared that by 2027, ODM would either form the government or be in government, emphasizing the party’s ambitions to lead rather than remain in opposition.