Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna on Friday delivered a stinging rebuke to Oburu Odinga during the People's National Delegates Conference (NDC) held at Ufungamano House, organized by a rival faction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
In a fiery speech, Sifuna dismissed suggestions that he could serve under Oburu, declaring that he would not preside over what he called “mediocrity.”
“It has been the honour of my life to be the Secretary General of probably the greatest politician this country will ever see, Raila Amollo Odinga,” Sifuna told delegates.
He emphasized that his loyalty remains with Raila and the ideals the ODM veteran represents.
Sifuna’s remarks came amid growing tensions within ODM, as rival factions continue to clash over the party’s leadership and direction. The Nairobi Senator posed a rhetorical challenge to his critics, saying,
“Sasa nataka mniangalie vizuri; yaani mnataka kuniambia naweza kuwa katibu mkuu wa ODM, katibu mkuu wa Raila Odinga, miaka nane, and then I become the SG of mediocrity? Oburu tafuta SG yako, mimi siwezi kuwa SG wa Oburu. I will not be the SG of mediocrity, after Raila Odinga, you characters don’t deserve me.”
He further clarified that his refusal to serve under Oburu does not indicate fear or reluctance to serve Kenya.
“Sifuna sio mwoga, kazi yoyote ambayo mtanituma kufanya kwa ajili ya taifa la Kenya, hiyo kazi ndio Sifuna atafanya,” he said.
Sifuna assured Kenyans that leadership positions are granted by the electorate, and he trusts that if any role is taken from him today, the people will restore it in 2027.
“Kwa hivo hakuna mtu anafaa kukaa mahali akifikiria Sifuna anakufa kwa sababu ya kukuwa katika nafasi yoyote ya uongozi. Nafasi zote za uongozi, iwe ndani ya chama cha ODM ama ndani ya taifa la Kenya, zinapeanwa na wananchi wa Kenya,” Sifuna emphasized.
Sifuna’s comments reveal a deepening divide within ODM, highlighting the personal loyalty networks that continue to shape party politics.