What You Need to Know
Edwin Sifuna, ODM’s secretary general, has firmly opposed the party’s support for President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid. Speaking to supporters, he emphasized the need for unity and resilience against potential compromises. Sifuna’s growing popularity among youth reflects a broader desire for change within Kenyan politics, as he prepares for a possible presidential run.
Africa-Press – Kenya. Besieged ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna has reaffirmed his opposition to the party’s backing of President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027, dismissing claims that he could be compromised to shift his stance.
Speaking after meeting the Bukusu Council of Elders at the residence of united opposition spokesperson Mukhisa Kituyi in Tongaren, Bungoma county, the outspoken Nairobi senator said his resolve remains firm, buoyed by growing support from a youthful base rallying under the slogan “Sisi Ndio Sifuna”.
The phrase, derived from his signature line “Mimi ndio Sifuna”, has evolved into a Gen Z and millennial-driven expression of defiance against the political status quo ahead of the next general election.
Addressing a section of his supporters at Mukhisa Kituyi’s home on Sunday, Sifuna challenged them to remain steadfast and resist inducements that could weaken their resolve.
“I can feel it when you say you’re Sifuna. I can feel the support, there’s nothing more I need to ask of you,” he said.
“Wacha tuone kati yenyu na mimi nani atatoroka wa kwanza. Kati yenyu na mimi nani atanunuliwa wa kwanza?”
(Let’s see, between you and me, who will run away first. Between you and me, who will be bought off first?)
“Si mnaogopa nitanunuliwa? Pia mimi naogopa mtanunuliwa (Are you not afraid that I’ll be bought off? I’m also afraid that you’ll be bought off).”
Sifuna has in recent months signalled interest in higher office, with political observers pointing to his Linda Mwananchi faction as groundwork for a possible presidential run in 2027.
His stance has put him at odds with sections of the ODM leadership following a fallout over the party’s cooperation agreement with Ruto’s administration.
After the death of party leader Raila Odinga in October last year, Sifuna has consistently argued that supporting Ruto’s re-election was not part of the 10-point Memorandum of Understanding signed between the former Prime Minister and the President.
The pact centred on collaboration between ODM and the ruling UDA party in implementing the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report and addressing governance, economic and political challenges.
Even as pressure mounted within the party, Sifuna has remained vocal against the arrangement, signalling readiness to work with like-minded leaders to form a new opposition alliance outside the ODM-UDA framework.
Despite his removal as secretary general, which he successfully contested in court, Sifuna has continued to gain traction, particularly among urban and younger voters who view him as a leading voice of resistance and have urged him to challenge Ruto in 2027.
He warned that those pushing him to declare a presidential bid must remain consistent in their support.
“Siku ile nitageuka nyuma, nikumbuke ile group ilikuwa hapa kwa Mukhisa, mmenichocha nimeingia gas vizuri nimetangaza, nigeuke nyuma nione hamuko, Mungu aliye juu yeye ndiye atadeal na nyinyi,” he said.
(That day I turn back and remember the group that was here at Mukhisa’s place—you hype me up, I go all in and boldly declare my bid—then I turn back and find you’re not there, the God above will deal with you)
As part of his countrywide mobilisation, Sifuna said the Linda Mwananchi caravan will head to Nakuru county on April 19 as he continues to build support.
He maintained that the message he is pushing has resonated widely across the country.
“Tumeenda Kenya mzima, hii message imekubalika na hii message si ati ni kwa sababu ni mimi, hapana. Wakenya wanaumia na wakenya wamechoka Ufisadi umefika level ambayo hatuwezi kuzungumuza.”
(We’ve gone across the whole of Kenya; this message has been accepted—and it’s not because of me, no. Kenyans are hurting, and they are tired. Corruption has reached a level where we can’t even talk about it anymore)
The ODM party has historically been a significant player in Kenyan politics, often opposing the ruling government. Following the death of Raila Odinga, the party has faced internal divisions, particularly regarding alliances with President Ruto’s administration. Sifuna’s vocal opposition to this partnership highlights the ongoing struggle within the party to maintain its identity and principles amid shifting political landscapes. His rise among younger voters signals a potential shift in political dynamics as the 2027 elections approach.
