Peter Kaluma: Sifuna without ODM is an empty shell
By Emmanuel Rono, May 31, 2026Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has launched an attack on the Linda Mwananchi leader and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, stating that he is politically weak without the backing of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Kaluma’s remarks follow a viral online report questioning Sifuna’s influence after a heated political exchange in Bungoma County on May 30, 2026, where Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa walked out of a function just as Sifuna was preparing to address mourners.
According to a statement on his X account on May 31, 2026, Kaluma questioned Sifuna’s political weight outside ODM structures, arguing that the party remains his main source of influence.
“Who has the video of Didmas Barasa leaving overrated Sifuna with nobody to address in Bungoma today? Sifuna without ODM is an empty shell,” Kaluma wrote.
Sifuna’s attack on Barasa in Bungoma burial
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, after the incident, criticised Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa over what he called money-driven politics during a burial ceremony in Kabuchai, Bungoma County, where tensions briefly disrupted proceedings.
The incident took place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, during the burial of the father of former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati. Leaders from across Western Kenya gathered for the ceremony.
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At the funeral, the mood shifted when Barasa left the venue with a section of his supporters just as Sifuna prepared to speak.
Barasa’s political behaviour
Addressing mourners, Sifuna downplayed the walkout but used the moment to question what he described as repeated political behaviour he has seen over time.
“Msiwe na wasi wasi huyu ndugu yetu mweshimiwa Didmus tumemzoea. Hii vipindi tumezoea, mimi nimekuwa kwa siasa miaka mingi,” he said, urging the crowd not to be surprised.
He then accused him of organising crowds and paying small amounts of money to influence attendance and reactions at public events.
“Ati wakati Sifuna anasimama kuongea yeye anatoka anaenda kupangisha watu line wakule mia mbili,” he said, claiming that individuals are sometimes lined up and paid 200 shillings to stage walkouts or show support.