The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is grappling with rising internal tensions as Secretary General Edwin Sifuna spoke out against what he described as growing authoritarianism within the party.
Marking what would have been the late Raila Odinga’s 81st birthday on Wednesday, January 7, Sifuna criticised certain leaders for deviating from the principles and vision that guided Raila’s political life.
He warned that the late leader’s legacy is being threatened by a culture of impunity, intolerance, and silence in the face of actions that could undermine Kenya’s democratic system.
“As the country’s foremost second liberation warrior, Baba was the acknowledged father of multipartyism and the new constitution, which gave birth to devolution,” Sifuna wrote.
Sifuna said Raila’s death in October last year has left space for political setbacks and the narrowing of democratic freedoms, contrary to the late leader’s vision.
“Multiparty democracy was intended to be a smooth avenue to free expression and choice, in which the ideologies of political parties would remain distinct and independent,” he added.
The Secretary General called on ODM leaders, particularly those who were mentored by Raila, to recommit to the principles that guided the late leader and to drive a fresh political awakening.
He stressed that leadership means standing with the marginalised, speaking truth to power, and safeguarding the Constitution, which guarantees the sovereignty of the people, celebrates diversity, and protects the rights of all citizens.
“We do not have the luxury of rest, nor do we possess any fear in pursuit of Raila’s ideals. Raila Odinga was consistent in standing with the oppressed, speaking truth to power,” Sifuna affirmed.
His comments come amid heated disagreements within ODM, which have seen accusations and counter-accusations among members deepen divisions.
The recent clash between Sifuna and the National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, where Sifuna accused Junet of mismanaging party funds during the 2022 General Election, has widened these cracks further.
Earlier in the day, ODM party leader Oburu Odinga met with Sifuna amid growing internal tensions within the party.
In a statement, Oburu said the two met at the party leader's office in Nairobi to reinforce unity and dialogue among party leaders.
