Sifuna: Raila personally instructed me to defend justice and equality
By Viola Kosome, April 27, 2026A political storm is brewing within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after a fiery Linda Mwananchi rally exposed deep cracks in the party’s leadership and direction.
The rally, which was attended by a mammoth crowd at Kowuor grounds after a church service in Nyalenda, was held amid heightened political tension and marked the first major gathering in the lakeside city since the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
What was expected to be a show of unity instead turned into a bold platform for dissent, as leaders openly criticised the party’s top hierarchy and questioned recent decisions.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna led the onslaught, invoking Raila Odinga’s legacy and calling on leaders to remain steadfast in defending the rights of the people.
Sifuna said the late ODM leader had personally instructed him to continue fighting for justice and equality, even in his absence.
“We were told clearly to stand firm and fight for the rights of the people, no matter the circumstances,” Sifuna said.
He accused some members of Raila’s inner political circle of failing to step forward, describing them as leaders who had been “sleeping” and are now afraid to take charge.
“If you feel you are not ripe, leave for those who are not afraid to take the lead,” he declared, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
He insisted that ODM would field a presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election, saying that was part of Raila’s vision before his death.
“ODM will not retreat. In 2027, we shall present a presidential candidate as planned,” Sifuna told supporters.
Sifuna further revealed that he drafted the agreement between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), saying he understands its contents fully.
“I am the one who wrote that agreement. I know it inside and out. The memorandum of understanding between the two parties included key provisions meant to address injustices,” Sifuna said.
He cited compensation for victims of police brutality as one of the key agreements that has not been fulfilled.
Baby Pendo case resurfaces
Sifuna pointed to the case of Baby Pendo, saying those responsible were supposed to face the law, but justice has yet to be served, as well as those who were killed in Nyalenda slums.
“We agreed that those officers would face the law and victims compensated, but that has not happened,” he said.
He accused the government of failing to honour the agreement, leaving victims without compensation or closure.
The senator also criticised President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of silencing young people, particularly those expressing themselves on social media.
“They are silencing young people, especially those who speak out online. That is not the democracy we fought for,” Sifuna said.
He linked his fallout with the broad-based government to the killing of Albert Ojwang, saying it marked the beginning of his disagreements with the administration.
“That was the turning point for me. From that moment, I knew things were not right,” he added.
Sifuna claimed that concerns raised at the time were reported to Raila Odinga but were not acted upon.
He stirred further controversy by revealing that the decision to install Oburu Odinga as ODM party leader was made on the day Raila’s body was being returned from India.
According to Sifuna, the move went against the party’s constitution, which requires a formal election process.
“Oburu was handpicked. The party constitution was not followed. Figures such as Siaya Governor James Orengo should have been allowed to vie for the position,” Sifuna said.
Sifuna also criticised senior leaders, including trade unionist Francis Atwoli, accusing them of failing in their roles as elders within the party as well as fighting for the rights of the people.
“We expected guidance, but what we are seeing is silence when leadership is needed most,” he said.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi told the rally that he had narrowly escaped death, alleging political intimidation.
“I was almost killed here, but I will not be intimidated or silenced,” Osotsi said.
Despite the threats, Osotsi maintained that he would not back down from pushing for reforms within the party.
Siaya Governor James Orengo condemned the alleged attack on Osotsi and called for investigations into the incident.
“Violence has no place in our politics. Those responsible must be held accountable,” Orengo said.
He warned that those undermining democracy within ODM must be confronted and further accused certain party officials of betraying the party and abandoning its founding ideals.
Among those he named were ODM party leader Oburu Odinga, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and Suna East MP Junet Mohamed.
“These are leaders who have sold the party and should not continue holding office,” Orengo said.
The acting ODM party leader
In a bold declaration, Orengo said he had been announced as the acting ODM party leader, a claim that is likely to intensify internal disputes.
“We are proud and we do not beg. We will defend this party,” he told the crowd.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino shifted focus to economic issues, criticising government priorities.
“Why focus on boda boda while our industries are collapsing? That is not development,” Owino said.
He questioned why key sectors such as the sugar industry continue to struggle while being privatised.
Owino also described the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) as a “scam,” reigniting debate over the project.
“The SGR is a scam, and Kenyans deserve accountability,” he said.
He lamented what he termed as the continued marginalisation of the Luo community in national leadership.
“We have never held the presidency, yet we have contributed so much to this country,” Owino said.
In a bold political declaration, Owino outlined his ambitions for higher office.
“Today you see me here, but one day you will come to State House. I will go for Nairobi governor in 2027 and later in 2032 go for the presidency,” he said.
He urged young people to unite and actively participate in shaping the country’s future.
“Stand up, organise yourselves, and take your place in leadership,” he told the youth.
Owino predicted a political shake-up within ODM, claiming that up to 80 per cent of current leaders would be voted out.
Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju accused the government of killing young people, grabbing land, and collapsing the sugar industry.
He also accused the government of wanting to kill him.
On his side, Richard Onyonka said the Luo community has long defended and sacrificed for Kenya, often without recognition.
“The Luo community has fought, defended, and even died for this country. That history must be respected,” he said.
The rally ended with a strong message from the Linda Mwananchi faction, signalling a determined push to challenge the status quo and redefine ODM’s future.