Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has invited supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to allow him to pursue alternative political options, citing disagreements with the party’s current leadership. Speaking at Posta Grounds in Bungoma during the Linda Mwananchi tour on July 26, 2026, Sifuna indicated that internal party shifts have distanced him from ODM's direction.

He emphasized his loyalty to the late Raila Odinga, recalling his role in bringing Raila’s body back from India after the former opposition leader’s passing. Sifuna refuted claims that he sought to weaken ODM, stating he honored a promise made at Raila’s funeral not to dismantle the party.

However, Sifuna revealed that upon returning from India, he discovered plans by some party officials to alter ODM’s leadership structure and install Oburu Odinga as party leader, a move he says contradicted the party’s constitution which advocates for Raila’s three deputies to collectively decide the succession process. The deputies named include Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Abdul Swamad Shariff Nassir, and Governor Simba Arati.

Allegations of ODM’s Shift Towards Ruto

He accused the current ODM leadership of abandoning the party’s original political ideals and aligning with President William Ruto’s administration, asserting that some leaders have effectively sold out the party.

Support from Trans Nzoia Governor

During the same event, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya expressed support for Sifuna, urging voters in Nyanza and Western Kenya to remain loyal to ODM’s founding values and resist shifting allegiance to President Ruto.

Natembeya cautioned voters against being swayed by campaign cash, advising them to accept any monetary offers but vote independently.

Political Developments

  • Sifuna’s fallout with ODM leadership has unfolded over several months following Raila Odinga’s death.
  • The Registrar of Political Parties has confirmed leadership changes within ODM, including Sifuna’s removal as secretary-general.
  • Oburu Odinga currently leads ODM, while Sifuna has sought to mobilize supporters through the Linda Mwananchi movement.