Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo has raised concerns over internal divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), accusing the party’s Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Kisii Governor Simba Arati of orchestrating disorder that threatens to derail ODM’s future.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday at Parliament Buildings, Odhiambo warned that the ongoing power struggles within ODM could undermine its influence and credibility as the country gears up for the 2027 General Election.
He emphasized that ODM, a key player in Kenya’s democracy, must uphold discipline and unity to remain politically relevant.
“At a time when ODM should be consolidating its influence and preparing its machinery for 2027, these two leaders have opted for internal sabotage, factionalism, and reckless brinkmanship, all in pursuit of selfish political gains,” Odhiambo stated.He took direct aim at Sifuna, accusing him of failing in his mandate as Secretary-General.
According to Odhiambo, Sifuna should be fostering unity and strengthening party structures rather than fueling tensions and internal conflicts.
“Instead of offering strategic leadership, Sifuna has become the face of ODM’s internal decay, embracing political theatrics over constructive engagement,” he said, adding that Sifuna’s leadership approach has been characterized by arrogance and political gamesmanship rather than stability and inclusivity.
Odhiambo suggested that if Sifuna cannot rise above the power struggles and offer visionary leadership, ODM should reconsider his role as Secretary-General.
The MP also took issue with Governor Arati, who doubles up as the Party’s Deputy Party leader, accusing him of running ODM as his personal empire and sidelining other party leaders to advance his political ambitions for 2027.
“Arati’s confrontational style—where he publicly disrespects party leadership and seeks to impose his will through sheer force—is a recipe for ODM’s collapse,” Odhiambo noted, arguing that his actions mirror those of a politician more interested in causing chaos than strengthening the party.Odhiambo warned that the continued infighting and lack of discipline within ODM would weaken its ability to effectively compete in the next election cycle.
He urged party members to prioritize unity, grassroots mobilization, and strategic planning over political theatrics.
“ODM’s future depends on discipline, unity, and strategic leadership. If the party is to remain a formidable force in Kenya’s political landscape, it must rein in the reckless ambitions of individuals like Sifuna and Arati before their anarchy renders ODM ungovernable,” he stated.As internal party wrangles escalate, Odhiambo’s remarks comes at a time the party has convened a Central Management Committee meeting to address emerging internal divisions regarding its stance on the Kenya Kwanza government and the 2027 elections.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi emphasized that the party is working towards a unified position on its relationship with Kenya Kwanza.
“The party, through the Central Management Committee, is going to discuss all the issues and take a common position on any matter,” Osotsi said after a leaders’ meeting in Busia on Sunday.The growing discontent within ODM ranks, raises questions about the party’s direction and leadership ahead of the 2027 polls.
Recently, sharp differences have emerged within ODM over its engagement with the Kenya Kwanza government.
On Monday, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma warned party members against airing internal disputes in public, saying such behavior could weaken the party’s unity.
“We cannot have a situation where top party officials contradict each other. ODM must speak with one voice,” Otuoma said.Among the leaders who have clashed publicly are Siaya Governor James Orengo, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
Governor Wanga dismissed those calling on ODM to oppose President Ruto’s government, referring to them as “enemies who are friends with shareholders (Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua).”
“It is either you are with us or with the shareholders,” Wanga stated, implying that ODM should not contradict itself by opposing Ruto’s government while some of its members collaborate with it.Speaking on Sunday during a church service, Sifuna accused certain ODM members of forgetting the party’s principles.
“Some people in ODM have forgotten where the party came from and what it stands for. They now say they are tired of speaking for Kenyans, tired of being in the opposition, and tired of fighting for the people’s rights,” Sifuna said.These internal disagreements have fueled fears of a possible fallout within ODM, especially as party leader Raila Odinga pursues the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson position.
Following Raila’s announcement of his exit from local politics, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o was appointed acting party leader, leaving ODM’s future leadership in flux.
