Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has stirred political debate after disclosing that party leader Raila Odinga turned down his request for a promotion within the party.
Speaking during the funeral of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, Sifuna openly shared that he had asked Raila to elevate him to the position of deputy party leader.
“Gladys Wanga was there when I asked Raila to promote me. He refused and said I should continue with my current role,” Sifuna told mourners. He added that Raila did not explain his decision but expressed hope that one day the ODM boss would reveal his reasons.
Sifuna has been ODM’s Secretary General since 2018, a role considered central to the party’s structure. His revelation comes shortly after ODM unveiled a fresh lineup, naming Governors Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Nassir, together with Senator Godfrey Osotsi, as deputy party leaders. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was also announced as the new national chairperson, taking over from John Mbadi.
The senator’s candid admission delivered in a solemn setting has fueled speculation about ODM’s succession plans and internal power dynamics.
Despite the setback, Sifuna reaffirmed his loyalty to ODM, urging members to stay true to the party’s mission. He also reminded mourners that ODM is not part of the Kenya Kwanza government, a statement that drew applause from the crowd.
Political observers say Sifuna’s openness could be a glimpse into the frustrations of ODM’s younger leaders, even as Raila keeps his cards close on the party’s long-term strategy.
