KITENGELA, Kenya — Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has pledged to continue challenging President William Ruto’s government, asserting that weak leadership is undermining the country’s progress.
Speaking at a church service in Kitengela, Sifuna said he would sustain his critique of the administration while defending citizens’ rights, invoking the legacy of the late Raila Odinga, founder of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
“We will not fear anything. We will continue to speak the truth so that we protect the citizens from the corruption in this country and the abductions we have witnessed. Raila told us a leader does not lead himself, and we will honour that,” Sifuna said.
He added that Kenyans have encouraged him to persist, saying,
“Kenyans have given me comfort to know that even if they do away with Sifuna, more than 15 million Sifunas will continue with this mission.”
Sifuna criticised President Ruto for weakening essential public services, particularly in health and education, and warned that critics are facing intimidation.
“Everything is going wrong even in the health sector, but they are saying we keep quiet lest they remove us from our positions. All leadership positions are given by the citizens. I will protect you today, and you will protect us tomorrow,” he said.
The former ODM Secretary-General’s outspoken stance contributed to his removal from the party’s top leadership.
ODM appointed Catherine Omanyo, Deputy Secretary-General and Busia Woman Representative, as acting secretary-general, citing Sifuna’s failure to comply with party resolutions.
Sifuna, alongside senior ODM figures including James Orengo and Babu Owino, has rejected the decision, describing it as illegal and politically motivated for opposing the President.
The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal has temporarily halted efforts to remove him, pending a formal hearing.
Since Odinga’s death, ODM has experienced internal divisions. Sifuna’s faction has resisted cooperation with President Ruto, while a rival group led by Oburu Odinga has aligned more closely with the administration, reportedly backing Ruto’s anticipated 2027 re-election bid.
ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and other officials have accused Sifuna of collaborating with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to undermine the party in its traditional strongholds, deepening internal rifts.
The unfolding political struggle highlights the growing tension within ODM as it navigates its post-Odinga leadership and the broader opposition strategy against the Ruto government.
