ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna
By David Njoroge
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has vowed to protect the party from internal wrangles, declaring loyalty to the late former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Odinga’s vision and rejecting attempts to sideline him from the movement’s future.
Speaking during the interment service for Odinga at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University in Bondo, Siaya County, Sifuna said he would not allow divisive politics to weaken ODM, describing his eight-year service under Odinga as both a privilege and a duty he intends to uphold.
“I am forever grateful to Raila for choosing me as ODM secretary general. I don’t know why you chose me, Baba,” Sifuna told mourners.
“I will not be among those who bring divisions. I will do everything in my power to keep the party united, even in the face of open provocation.”
Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, died on Wednesday, October 15, in Kochi, India, while receiving medical treatment.
His body was repatriated to Kenya on Thursday, October 16, and lay in state for public viewing before a state funeral on Friday, October 17, at Nyayo National Stadium.
He is being buried today, in line with his wish to be interred within 72 hours of death.
President William Ruto, who declared a seven-day mourning period and ordered flags flown at half-mast, is attending the service alongside former President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and several Cabinet Secretaries.
In his earlier tribute, Ruto described Odinga as “a leader whose impact transcended generations, whose courage inspired change, and whose vision shaped destiny.”
Sifuna’s remarks come amid rising tensions within ODM following Odinga’s death, with some insiders questioning his loyalty and role in the post-Raila era.
The tension grew after Sifuna appeared to snub reporters linked to MP Peter Salasya, prompting criticism and claims of arrogance.
He also pleaded for calm earlier in the week after chaos erupted at Odinga’s Karen residence, urging supporters to give Mama Ida space and respect.
Sifuna used the Bondo ceremony to reaffirm commitment to Odinga’s final directive, insisting the party must prepare for the 2027 general election.
“Who has told you otherwise? Do not twist the words of a man who has rested. Baba said it himself that as a party we must get ready for the 2027 election,” he observed.
ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga echoed his call for unity, saying Odinga’s legacy of building a strong political movement must endure.
“Over the last 20 years, Raila Odinga built a vibrant and dynamic party,” Wanga told the gathering. “To the more than seven million members of ODM, we say we remain focused and the party moves on.
His last instruction to us, and with a very clear mind, was to work with the new broad-based government.”
Sifuna’s reaffirmation follows public backing from senior party figures, including Oburu Odinga, who urged ODM members to respect Raila’s parting wish and preserve his political legacy.
Odinga’s body will later be taken to his Opoda farm in Bondo for interment after full military honors.
