- ODM will field its own presidential candidate in 2027, according to Senator Sifuna.
- Sifuna insists the party’s mission to lead Kenya remains strong.
- He criticized the working relationship between Ruto and Raila.
- Sifuna claimed ODM supporters face political exclusion in development.
- He cited several regions being sidelined for backing Raila Odinga.
- ODM appears set for a renewed push to reclaim national leadership.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has made it clear that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is firmly focused on taking over leadership in 2027. Speaking during a live morning show on May 8, 2025, the senator stated that ODM’s main goal remains unchanged—to lead the country and remove the current regime through democratic means.
He firmly stated that the party will go to the ballot with its own presidential candidate, ready to compete with President William Ruto and anyone else.
“We’re Here to Compete, Not to Cooperate”
Sifuna made it known that despite recent political engagements between President Ruto and ODM party leader Raila Odinga, the party will not back down from contesting for power.
He emphasized that ODM has never lost sight of its main mission and that they are preparing to offer Kenyans a different style of leadership. “We want to make Ruto a one-term president,” he said.
Public Sentiment is Against the Government
Sifuna also touched on the growing dissatisfaction he claims to witness during President Ruto’s public events. He said his views are shaped by what citizens on the ground express, especially in areas where the president has visited for development tours.
He dismissed any suggestion that his position is out of touch, saying the resistance to the government is real and growing.
ODM Strongholds Left Behind
Addressing the issue of marginalisation, the senator pointed out that many parts of the country that have supported Raila Odinga are being ignored in terms of development. He argued that the ruling government punishes areas based on political loyalty instead of serving all Kenyans fairly.
He gave examples of ODM supporters across different regions, stating that they are often left out of national development plans.
“Raila Is a National Leader, Not a Tribal One”
Sifuna also rejected the idea that Raila only represents the Luo community, pointing out that people from other communities like himself also support him.
He mentioned discrimination he has faced, despite coming from outside Nyanza, just because he stands with Raila. He added that even in Baringo, ODM officials like Chairman Lekakimon have been sidelined due to their political roles.
Tensions Rise as 2027 Approaches
The senator’s remarks suggest ODM is preparing for a serious political battle in the 2027 general election. His strong words highlight the rising political heat and signal that opposition forces are getting ready to challenge the current leadership head-on.
