Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has downplayed his recent removal as Senate Deputy Minority Whip, saying political positions do not define him and vowing to continue speaking out on issues affecting Kenyans.
Speaking during a Linda Mwananchi rally in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County, on Saturday, Sifuna appeared to hint at even bigger political ambitions, joking that young people no longer want to refer to him as ODM Secretary-General but H.E (His Excellence).
“Vijana wanataka niache kuitwa SG. Wanataka kunipea ingine inaitwa HE. Unajua HE?”
The senator said although he has lost several positions previously entrusted to him by ODM leader Raila Odinga, none of that has taken away his voice or ability to think independently.
“Nafasi zote kubwa ambazo Baba alikuwa amenipa zimechukuliwa. Lakini nataka kuwauliza: Bado mnaona nina masikio yangu? Bado nina kichwa changu? Bado nina miguu yangu? Je, wameniondolea akili zangu?”
Sifuna insisted that no political office would silence him, maintaining that he would continue championing the interests of ordinary Kenyans regardless of the positions he holds.
His remarks come days after he was removed as Senate Deputy Minority Whip following changes in the opposition leadership at the Senate, a move that has fueled debate over ODM’s growing working relationship with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration.
The comments also come as some leaders within the Linda Mwananchi movement continue pushing for Sifuna to become the outfit’s presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election.
However, Linda Mwananchi on its own may not have the national strength to mount a formidable presidential campaign compared to the United Opposition, a coalition that Linda Mwananchi has already indicated it is willing to work with.
The big question now is whether joining the United Opposition would strengthen or dilute Sifuna’s political influence.
Even more challenging is the crowded opposition field. United Opposition brings together heavyweight politicians, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, Jubilee’s Fred Matiang’i, PLP leader Martha Karua and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, all of whom have declared or are widely expected to seek the presidency in 2027.
Would these seasoned politicians step aside and rally behind Sifuna, or will he have to compete against them for the opposition ticket?
Another question remains whether Sifuna has built enough political support across the country to mount a viable bid for the presidency.
