SIAYA, Kenya – Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna has dismissed claims that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga wanted the opposition party to back President William Ruto, insisting instead that Odinga’s final directive was for ODM to prepare for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during Odinga’s burial service in Bondo on Sunday, Sifuna said the party must resist “open provocation” and avoid internal wrangles that could weaken its unity and legacy.
“Even in the face of open provocation — you know what I am talking about — Rev. Wesonga has said Baba would always listen to the people,” the Nairobi Senator told mourners. “I want to encourage the leadership of ODM to keep silent and listen to the people on what they want us to do with the party.”
Sifuna recalled Odinga’s remarks during a meeting with ODM legislators in Nairobi last month, saying the opposition chief had made it clear that the party would be on the ballot in 2027.
“Baba spoke openly before MPs at Argyle, Nairobi, on the 22nd of last month. He said we must prepare for the 2027 polls. Let no one put words in the mouth of the dead,” Sifuna said, stressing that he would not take part in any efforts to dilute the movement’s identity.
“This is not the time to push divisive narratives in ODM,” he added. “I will not be among those who contribute to the failure of Raila Odinga’s party. ODM is one of his greatest legacies, and I will do everything in my power to keep it united.”
Wanga Says Raila Endorsed Cooperation With Ruto
Sifuna’s remarks appeared to contradict those of ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who a day earlier said Raila had expressed his wish for the party to remain part of President Ruto’s broad-based government.
“The last instructions he left us with, and with a very clear mind, was that he made a conscious decision to join the broad-based government,” Wanga told mourners at the funeral service on Saturday. “As a people and as a party, that is where we will stand.”
Her statement was backed by Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, who assured supporters that ODM would stay united despite speculation about its collapse after Odinga’s death.
“Many are expecting the downfall of ODM. I want to assure the people of Kenya that ODM will remain united in honour of Raila Odinga,” said Ledama.
Party at a Crossroads
The conflicting statements underscore the growing tension within ODM over whether to cooperate with President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) or maintain its independence.
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, Raila’s younger sister, has also urged unity within the movement, saying her brother’s final wish was for a strong, cohesive ODM.
“Raila told me the day before he died that ODM must be united and strong,” she said. “We cannot have one ODM being led by a few people and another faction on the other side who think they own the party.”
Odinga, 80, died last week in Kochi, India, after suffering cardiac arrest. His death marks the end of an era for Kenya’s opposition politics and leaves ODM at a crossroads — torn between honouring his legacy of principled opposition and adapting to a new era of political pragmatism.
