Sifuna Accuses ODM Leaders of Abandoning Raila Odinga’s Legacy Ahead of 2027 Elections

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has accused senior Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders of abandoning the legacy of the late Raila Odinga and failing to respect his family following his death.

Speaking during a church service in Nairobi on Sunday, Sifuna claimed that some politicians who previously presented themselves as close allies of Raila had shifted their priorities towards supporting President William Ruto’s political agenda. The senator, who is associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement and leads the Equitable Party, said some ODM leaders had moved away from the principles championed by the former Prime Minister. He maintained that his political camp would continue defending Raila’s legacy and supporting his family.

His remarks followed tensions during the first anniversary commemoration of Raila in Bondo, where political disagreements and disruptions overshadowed the event. Leaders associated with Linda Mwananchi alleged that the disturbances were linked to local political interests opposed to the presence of invited opposition figures.

Sifuna accused some former allies of Raila of abandoning activities meant to honour his memory while pursuing new political alliances. He also alleged that members of the Odinga family had been treated with disrespect by individuals who once publicly expressed loyalty to the former Prime Minister.

The dispute reflects concerns raised by Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, who criticised the politicisation of the anniversary commemoration. She said an occasion intended to celebrate her husband’s life and contribution to the country had instead been marked by heckling, intimidation and political rivalry.

Ida defended the family’s decision to invite leaders from different political backgrounds, saying inclusivity had been an important part of Raila’s political approach and public life. Sifuna also criticised President Ruto’s administration, accusing it of falling short of public expectations and undermining democratic freedoms. He cited concerns about freedom of expression, media independence and the treatment of government critics.

The senator, who has expressed interest in contesting the presidency in the 2027 General Election, also rejected suggestions by Ruto that the opposition remained disorganised. He argued that opposition leaders were working towards greater unity and would eventually rally behind a common political platform.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who also spoke during the church service, criticised the leadership of Nairobi County, accusing City Hall of corruption and poor governance that had affected service delivery. Babu Owino presented himself as an alternative to the current county leadership and pledged to prioritise road infrastructure, education support, waste management and youth employment if elected governor.