ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has thrown the political scene into a storm after boldly challenging President William Ruto to step aside in 2027 and support Raila Odinga if his calls for a “broad-based government” are genuine.
Speaking at a charged public gathering, Sifuna dismissed the unity narrative being pushed by Kenya Kwanza leaders, accusing them of exploiting Raila Odinga’s influence without honoring his legacy or leadership. He told the crowd that if Ruto truly values inclusivity, he must make the ultimate sacrifice in the next election.
“Mimi sijui kitu inaitwabroad-based. Na kama mnapenda hii broad-based government sana, leo ndo mnatuambia vile mnapenda Raila Odinga, basi 2027 Ruto awachie Baba. Hii ndio tujue broad-based si mchezo,” Sifuna declared to deafening cheers from the crowd.
He went on to argue that Raila has effectively taken over the role of stabilizing the government, suggesting that the president leaned on the ODM leader when things began falling apart. According to Sifuna, Raila’s involvement is the only reason the country is still holding together.
“Wakati kazi iliwashinda, Ruto alimtafuta Baba. Sasa mtu anayefanya kazi ni Baba. Kwa hivyo mwaka wa 2027, Ruto rudi nyuma ya Baba kama kweli broad-based ni ya ukweli,” he added.
ODM’s messaging has taken a firm new tone, no longer begging for political inclusion but instead demanding full recognition of Raila Odinga’s central role in governance—and a clear path to the presidency in 2027.
Dr. Oburu Odinga also weighed in, taking direct aim at Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other Mt. Kenya leaders. He accused them of hypocrisy and short memory, reminding them how they once shunned Raila, only to now turn around and seek his political friendship.
“When we told Kikuyus, including Gachagua, that Raila was the right leader to lead this country and give shares to everybody, they refused and supported Ruto. But now, when we are also talking to the same Ruto, they are telling us to come and join them,” Oburu lamented.
The remarks by Sifuna and Oburu reflect growing frustration within ODM over what they see as insincere attempts to sanitize the Kenya Kwanza administration through backdoor political deals. They want a seat at the table—but only if it leads to Raila Odinga ascending to power.
With the 2027 political temperature rising, and Raila’s name still commanding thunderous applause in public forums, ODM’s message is loud and clear: no more symbolic roles—it’s time to talk about power. Real power. And it starts with Ruto stepping aside.
