In Kenya’s political scene, loyalty often signifies passive silence. However, for Edwin Sifuna, this doesn’t necessarily need to be the case. The embattled ODM former secretary-general is slowly proving that, sometimes, being disloyal is indeed right.
While most politicians are comfortable thriving under the wings of their mentors, Sifuna is choosing to be different. In the past two years, the vocal Senator has continued to solidify his political career through defiance.
Sifuna’s willingness to overlook established ranks, especially with the late ODM party boss Raila Odinga, is rapidly redefining his political identity.
Despite attracting mixed reactions from Kenyans, here are three instances when Sifuna disagreed with Raila and got away with it, moves that could at the same time make his political career brighter in the future.
“I Don’t Support the Broad-Based Government”
In July 2024, following Raila’s acceptance to enter into a broad-based government with Ruto, Sifuna was quick to distance himself from the arrangement.
According to Sifuna, he couldn’t be part of a dubious agreement. While rejecting the invitation, Sifuna termed the broad-based government as a failed deal.
The Senate’s Oversight Role is Constitutional
In August 2024, Sifuna also publicly disagreed with Raila’s suggestions that senators could not verify and oversee the financial expenditures of governors. According to Sifuna, the oversight mandate of the Senate to oversee financial expenditures is clearly outlined in the Constitution.
“Regardless of political inclinations, the Senate’s oversight mandate cannot be compromised.” Sifuna remarked.
“I can’t support Ruto’s re-election in 2027”
After noting growing cooperation between Raila Odinga and President William Ruto, Sifuna stood his ground by opposing the agreement that would help Ruto secure re-election. According to the Nairobi senator, he would rather resign than endorse Ruto.
To date, Sifuna maintains that the current administration is bogus and that it should be removed from power. Though Sifuna’s stance contradicts that of ODM’s leadership, he stands firm, unshaken, and unstoppable.
Although Sifuna’s past discord with the late former Prime Minister and his current rift with Raila’s brother, Oburu Odinga, threatens his position within the ODM Party, this dissent could make him a defining force in the 2027 elections.
Now that attempts to oust him from Orange House on February 12 were halted, one question continues to linger. Is Edwin Sifuna the right man to take over Raila Odinga?
