Raila: Sifuna spoke his own opinion, not for ODM – stop misquoting me
By Kenneth Mwenda, July 26, 2025Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has broken his silence on the rising internal tensions within the political outfit, defending Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna’s right to speak while making it clear that Sifuna’s recent remarks do not represent the party’s official position.
Speaking on Saturday, July 26, 2025, during a memorial gathering for mother, Mama Jane Adongo Wando, in Bar Athenge village, Sigomere, Raila clarified that while Sifuna is a respected figure within ODM, the party’s position on critical matters will only be decided through internal discussions by official party organs.
“What Sifuna said is based on personal opinion,” Raila said. “But ODM’s opinion will come as a result of discussion within the organs of the party. This is what we make public.”
Raila’s remarks follow Sifuna’s explosive interview on a local TV channel, where the Nairobi Senator declared the ODM-UDA MoU “dead,” citing unfulfilled promises by the government and increased extrajudicial killings, including the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang.
Raila backs ODM democracy
The comments triggered sharp reactions within the party. Some leaders, particularly those serving in President Ruto’s government under the ODM-UDA agreement, accused Sifuna of overstepping and called for his resignation. But Raila came to Sifuna’s defence, reiterating ODM’s democratic values.
“ODM is a democratic party. Everyone is allowed to express themselves. But our official position will be decided by the Central Committee or the National Executive Committee after consultation. After that, our spokesperson, Sifuna, will communicate it,” Raila explained on Friday, July 25, 2025.
Raila also criticised the media on Saturday for misquoting him and creating unnecessary confusion.
“If you don’t understand what I’m saying, come to me and ask me to elaborate,” he urged.
Raila concluded by affirming the party’s unity and strength, promising clear direction once internal deliberations conclude.
“We’ll move forward with a clear vision. ODM remains strong and stable.”