Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has threatened to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) if the party chooses to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.
Speaking during a recent political forum, Sifuna, who is also the ODM Secretary-General, expressed frustration over internal criticism following his remarks on the party’s future direction. He made it clear that he is not willing to align with President Ruto under any circumstance and would rather walk away from ODM if the party shifts in that direction.
Sifuna accused some party members of trying to silence him for expressing his personal views, despite ODM's leadership—including party leader Raila Odinga—insisting that the party embraces democracy.
“Raila himself has said that this is a democratic party and any member is free to speak their mind, yet some thugs are saying I cannot hold views independent of the party just because I am the secretary-general, that I represent the party at all times,” Sifuna stated.
His comments follow growing speculation about potential political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections. With Raila Odinga focused on his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, questions have emerged about the direction ODM might take without him as its presidential candidate.
Sifuna’s strong reaction appears to be a warning to those within the party who might be considering a partnership with Ruto or his United Democratic Alliance (UDA). He maintained that his loyalty lies with the principles and policies that ODM has stood for, not with individuals or short-term political calculations.
The Nairobi senator emphasized that ODM should stick to its core values and warned that compromising those values for political convenience would only lead to the party’s downfall.
His remarks reflect growing internal tensions in ODM as it navigates a leadership transition and a shifting political landscape ahead of 2027.
For now, Sifuna remains part of the party’s top leadership, but his threat to exit signals deeper unrest within ODM ranks—especially if the party chooses a path that contradicts its long-standing opposition stance.
Politics
New Bill to Enforce Stricter Budget Rules in All Counties
A new Bill passed by the National Assembly aims to tighten financial rules in counties and improve accountability in spending.
Amina Halake Takes Over Dida's Party, Eyes 2027 Presidency
Amina Halake, wife of former presidential candidate Abduba Dida, has declared her intention to run for president in 2027, stepping into the political spotlight through a party her husband once led.
Obi Accuses Tinubu of Misleading Nigerians With False Economic Data
Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has accused President Bola Tinubu of using false statistics to cover up Nigeria’s deepening economic crisis.
Sudan Rejects RSF’s Move to Form a Rival Government
Sudan’s government has strongly rejected the formation of a “parallel government” by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), calling it an act of defiance and a threat to national stability.
Kenyan Activist Mwabili Mwagodi Reported Abducted in Tanzania
Kenyan activist Mwabili Mwagodi has gone missing in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in what is being described as a suspected abduction.
Babu Owino Vows to Run for Nairobi Governor With or Without ODM
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has announced that he will run for Nairobi governor in 2027, whether or not he secures the ODM party ticket.
Ruto Slams Maraga Over Failed State Claims and Leadership Bid
President William Ruto has sharply criticised former Chief Justice David Maraga for calling Kenya a failed state, questioning his credibility and motives.
Adamu Garba Warns Tinubu Is Being Misled by Sycophants
President Bola Tinubu is being misled by those around him who pretend everything is fine, according to Adamu Garba, a member of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
NCIC Removes Wambui Nyutu Over Partisan Politics Breach
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has removed Vice Chairperson Wambui Nyutu from her position, citing repeated involvement in partisan political activity that violated her oath of office and legal responsibilities.
South African President Fires Minister Over Graft Allegations
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane following corruption allegations and pressure from within his coalition government.
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara Taken to Court After Police Detention
Naivasha Member of Parliament Jayne Kihara was presented in court after spending the night in police custody, according to her lawyer.
France Ends Decades-Long Military Presence in Senegal
French troops have been stationed in Senegal since the country gained independence in 1960, but that presence has now officially come to an end.
Gachagua Confirms Release of DCP Youth Leaders on Cash Bail
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has confirmed that two of the party’s youth leaders, James KaWanjiru and Wanjiku Thiga, have been released after being arrested over the June 25 protests.
Court Clears Ex-Ekiti Governor Fayose of Fraud Charges
Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has been cleared of all money laundering and fraud charges by a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos.
Nigeria’s Former President Buhari to Be Buried on Tuesday
Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari will be laid to rest on Tuesday, according to an official announcement.