A fresh political storm is brewing within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after Secretary General Edwin W. Sifuna declared he would not preside over what he termed “mediocrity”, in remarks seen as a direct attack on rivals within the party.
“I repeat, I cannot be the SG of mediocrity. Kasongo Wantam!” Mr Sifuna said in a strongly worded statement that has sent shockwaves across the party and the wider opposition.
The Nairobi senator’s remarks come amid simmering tensions within ODM over its political direction, internal discipline and its relationship with President William Ruto’s administration.
While Mr Sifuna did not name individuals, his statement is widely interpreted as a swipe at a section of party leaders accused by critics of warming up to the government, deepening divisions within ODM.
The phrase “Kasongo Wantam”, now gaining traction in political circles, is associated with a growing anti-establishment narrative pushing for a one-term presidency for Dr Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Mr Sifuna, a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, has in recent months positioned himself as a key defender of ODM’s traditional opposition stance, often clashing with leaders perceived to be soft on the government.
His latest declaration signals a hardening position that could set the stage for a fierce internal showdown, particularly as early political alignments for 2027 begin to crystallise.
The remarks also come at a time when the ODM party leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has faced mounting pressure to clarify the party’s position amid shifting alliances and speculation over possible cooperation with the ruling coalition.
Political analysts say Mr Sifuna’s statement reflects a deeper struggle for the soul of the party, pitting loyalists pushing for a firm opposition line against those advocating for a more conciliatory approach.
“This is no longer just rhetoric; it is a signal of an internal battle that could redefine ODM’s identity,” said a Nairobi-based political analyst.
Mr Sifuna’s hardline stance is likely to resonate with a section of the party’s base that feels betrayed by perceived compromises, even as it risks widening cracks within one of Kenya’s most influential political outfits.
Efforts to reach senior ODM officials for comment on Mr Sifuna’s remarks were unsuccessful by press time.
