Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has raised fresh concerns over the direction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), warning that sidelining key leaders could fundamentally alter the party’s identity and legacy.
Speaking during a recent podcast interview, Kalonzo strongly defended Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, describing him as a principled and courageous leader who earned the trust of the late Raila Odinga over the years.
According to Kalonzo, any move to remove Sifuna from his position as ODM Secretary-General would signal a major shift away from the ideals that defined the party.
Kalonzo did not stop at Sifuna. He also mentioned Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Senator Godfrey Osotsi as critical figures whose presence reflects the core values that ODM has upheld for decades. He cautioned that pushing out such leaders could weaken the party’s ideological foundation.
“If they push Sifuna out, it is not just about one person. It becomes a departure from everything Raila Odinga stood for,” Kalonzo stated, emphasizing that ODM’s strength has always been rooted in its commitment to democracy, inclusivity, and reform.
He went further to suggest that the party risks being transformed into what he termed a “William Ruto ODM,” implying a shift toward alignment with the current administration rather than maintaining its traditional opposition stance. This, he warned, could alienate supporters who have long identified with the party’s original mission.
Kalonzo also praised Sifuna’s outspoken leadership style, noting that his boldness resonates with the current generation of politically active youth.
Kalonzo did not stop at Sifuna. He also mentioned Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Senator Godfrey Osotsi as critical figures whose presence reflects the core values that ODM has upheld for decades. He cautioned that pushing out such leaders could weaken the party’s ideological foundation.
“If they push Sifuna out, it is not just about one person. It becomes a departure from everything Raila Odinga stood for,” Kalonzo stated, emphasizing that ODM’s strength has always been rooted in its commitment to democracy, inclusivity, and reform.
He went further to suggest that the party risks being transformed into what he termed a “William Ruto ODM,” implying a shift toward alignment with the current administration rather than maintaining its traditional opposition stance. This, he warned, could alienate supporters who have long identified with the party’s original mission.
Kalonzo also praised Sifuna’s outspoken leadership style, noting that his boldness resonates with the current generation of politically active youth.
He likened Sifuna’s energy to the spirit seen during recent youth-led protests, arguing that such voices are essential in shaping Kenya’s democratic future.
At the same time, the Wiper leader hinted that the broader opposition is closely watching developments within ODM.
At the same time, the Wiper leader hinted that the broader opposition is closely watching developments within ODM.
He revealed that the United Opposition would be willing to support Sifuna should he choose a different political path, underscoring his belief that the senator remains a key figure in Kenya’s political landscape.
“Sifuna has been shaped by what I call the Raila Odinga School of Politics. That grounding cannot be ignored,” Kalonzo added.
His remarks come shortly after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal dismissed a case seeking to remove Sifuna from his position, instead directing that the matter be handled through ODM’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms.
“Sifuna has been shaped by what I call the Raila Odinga School of Politics. That grounding cannot be ignored,” Kalonzo added.
His remarks come shortly after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal dismissed a case seeking to remove Sifuna from his position, instead directing that the matter be handled through ODM’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms.
This ruling has temporarily secured Sifuna’s position but has not silenced the ongoing tensions within the party.
Kalonzo concluded by stressing the importance of protecting leaders who demonstrate integrity and courage, warning that sidelining such individuals could have long-term consequences for the country’s political environment.
Kalonzo concluded by stressing the importance of protecting leaders who demonstrate integrity and courage, warning that sidelining such individuals could have long-term consequences for the country’s political environment.
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