“I Can’t Be SG for Mediocrity,” Sifuna Rejects Working Under Oburu

A side-by-side image of Oburu Odinga and Edwi Sifuna

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has signalled his unwillingness to continue serving as Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General under the party’s current leadership, terming it “mediocrity.”

Speaking during a public rally at Tononoka Grounds in Mombasa on Sunday, March 29, 2026, Sifuna dismissed the possibility of working under ODM leader Oburu Odinga, drawing comparisons with the late Raila Odinga.

“Siwezi kuwa secretary general wa mediocrity. Mnajua mediocrity ni nini? Siwezi fanya kazi na Raila Odinga kwa zaidi ya miaka tisa alafu nifanye kazi na mtu kama Oburu,” Sifuna said.

Loosely translated, Sifuna stated that he could not serve as secretary-general under what he considers inferior leadership after working closely with Raila Odinga for over nine years.

He stressed that the two leadership standards are not comparable, reiterating his dissatisfaction with the current direction and leadership of the party.

Sifuna’s remarks come at a time when ODM is grappling with internal divisions, with factions emerging over the party’s future following Raila Odinga’s death. Some members have expressed concern over the direction being taken under Oburu Odinga’s leadership.

The Nairobi senator has been a vocal defender of the ideals and values associated with Raila, positioning himself as a key figure within the Linda Mwananchi faction.

He maintained that his stance is rooted in protecting the party’s founding principles, adding that he would not compromise on what he described as mediocrity.

Sifuna further reiterated that the Linda Mwananchi faction remains focused on preventing President William Ruto from securing a second term in the 2027 General Election.