“I Have No Grudge Against You”: Sifuna Softens His Tone and Sends This Message to ODM Leaders

Edwin Sifuna has explained why he tried to keep the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) united, saying he had promised the late Raila Odinga that he would not be the person to destroy the party.

The Nairobi senator said he did his best to protect ODM from internal divisions, even as disagreements emerged over the party’s leadership and political direction following Raila’s death.

“I want Raila to know that I kept the promise I made in Bondo during his burial that I don’t want to be the one to wreck his party. I tried my best for us to keep the party united,” Sifuna said.

His remarks come at a time when ODM is facing difficult questions about its future leadership and political plans ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Sifuna also questioned the role played by President William Ruto in the party’s affairs after Raila’s death. He alleged that Ruto had become involved in ODM matters and claimed that decisions made by the party’s leadership had been taken under the president’s instructions.

“He got into the affairs of ODM, especially after Mzee (Raila Odinga) died. I do not doubt that all the decisions that have been taken by the leadership of ODM were under his instructions,” Sifuna alleged.

The claims add to the ongoing debate about ODM’s relationship with Ruto and the direction the party should take as the country prepares for the next general election. The allegations remain Sifuna’s position and do not, on their own, establish that the president directed the party’s decisions.

Despite the differences, Sifuna said he held no grudge against those who had chosen to remain in ODM. He wished them well, signalling that his disagreement with the party’s direction did not mean he had personal hostility towards its members.

His comments are likely to draw further attention as political leaders continue to debate ODM’s future and its role in the 2027 elections.

Do you think ODM can maintain its unity amid the current political disagreements?

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