The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has set conditions for him to resign from the party.
Speaking during a women’s empowerment fundraiser in Saboti, Trans Nzoia on Sunday August 3, 2025, Sifuna stated that he remains committed to ODM’s principles but will not be part of the deal to support President William Ruto’s re-election in the 2027 general elections.
“I am willing to read whatever statement ODM comes up with for dissemination, even if they were to insult me. But the day the party decides it wants to support Ruto come 2027, that one I will not read,” said Sifuna.
At the same time, the Nairobi Senator maintained that he has a right to make his personal views because ODM stands for democracy.
“I assure ODM supporters that my stance remains,” Sifuna said.
“Raila himself has said that this is a democratic party and any member is free to speak their mind, yet some thugs are saying I cannot hold views independent of the party just because I am the secretary-general, that I represent the party at all times,” he added.
This was after some critics labelled Sifuna an ODM rebel for his sustained criticism of Ruto’s government despite his party boss’s agreement with the ruling United Democratic Alliance party, which bore the broad-based government.
Sifuna dismissed the pressure and criticism from a section of party supporters calling for his resignation, insisting that he would only step down if the party entered a political pact with President William Ruto’s UDA.
The senator further responded to those proposing other leaders to replace him, specifically referencing calls to have MP Jared Okello take over the Secretary General post.
“I heard some fronting my friend Jared Okello, saying he is the most articulate and suited to replace me. I want to tell him to be on standby—because the moment ODM says it is supporting UDA, I will have no option but to go,” he said.
Sifuna also hinted at forming alliances with like-minded leaders opposed to the current regime, saying they would not shy away from working with Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and other anti-government voices.
He maintained that their shared goal of making William Ruto a one term President would take priority over party affiliations, and he would stand with anyone who shared that mission.
