ODM party leader Raila Odinga has come out strongly in support of Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, following criticism over Sifuna’s recent remarks on the Kenya Kwanza-ODM agreement.
Raila defended Sifuna’s right to speak his mind, saying that in ODM, democracy allows for differing opinions, and every leader has the freedom to voice their views—whether popular or not.
While addressing ODM delegates in Kakamega, Raila emphasized that Sifuna had done nothing wrong by questioning the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ODM and Kenya Kwanza.
He maintained that expressing personal views is part of democracy and a core value of the ODM party. “Everyone has the right to speak their truth. That is what democracy is about. Sifuna is allowed to express himself, and if you disagree with him, you are also free to speak,” Raila told party members.
Raila went on to say that he welcomes criticism, even of his own decisions, and encouraged members not to be afraid to speak up—even to him. “If you feel I’ve made a mistake, tell me. That’s how we grow,” he added, reinforcing his belief in open dialogue within the party.
His comments came shortly after Sifuna, in an interview on Citizen TV, said that ODM was no longer clear about the status of the agreement with Kenya Kwanza, claiming that the deal had effectively expired and was not being honored.
Sifuna’s words sparked debate and drew sharp criticism from within and outside the party, raising concerns of division among ODM’s senior ranks.
But Raila urged leaders not to attack Sifuna publicly. Instead, he encouraged them to use party structures to address internal issues. “Let’s not criticize each other in newspapers.
If we have disagreements, we will sit down in the Central Committee or the National Executive Council, have our say, and decide what direction to take,” Raila explained. He emphasized that Sifuna, as the party’s official spokesperson, should only communicate decisions agreed upon collectively.
Raila also used the opportunity to denounce tribalism within the party, reminding members that ODM is a national movement, not owned by any ethnic group. He reiterated that once internal consultations are complete and a consensus is reached, the party will issue an official position on the way forward.
Through his speech, Raila made it clear that ODM will continue to uphold democracy, unity, and open dialogue as it navigates its internal matters and future political partnerships.
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