Orengo Supports Sifuna and Osotsi, Cautions Against Succession Politics

Senior leaders of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have issued differing public statements over party leadership and internal discipline.

Speaking at the funeral of veteran politician Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, Siaya Governor James Orengo reaffirmed the legitimacy of ODM’s current leadership structure. He said that Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna remains the party’s Secretary-General and that Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi continues to serve as Deputy Party Leader, emphasising that both positions are anchored in law rather than political expediency.

Orengo added that Raila Odinga had formally appointed Sifuna as the party’s spokesperson, a role he said carries constitutional authority. Orengo warned party members against undermining established offices, arguing that such actions risk weakening ODM’s internal coherence.

He urged those with presidential ambitions to state them openly instead of seeking subordinate roles within broader political arrangements. He also cautioned against smaller parties losing their identity through prolonged participation in dominant coalitions, citing ANC, FORD-Kenya and ODM itself as examples of parties vulnerable to erosion if ideology and grassroots structures are neglected.

His remarks contrasted with those of Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, who criticised leaders for discussing internal party disagreements in public forums. Otuoma said disputes should be resolved through internal mechanisms rather than aired at public events, particularly at a time when ODM faces pressure to clarify its position amid shifting national alliances.

In a separate address at the same event, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna apologised to former President Uhuru Kenyatta over remarks made by some ODM members that he described as disrespectful. Sifuna acknowledged Kenyatta’s past support for Raila Odinga, calling him a loyal ally during key political moments. He attributed the comments to a section of the party, stating that ODM also includes leaders who continue to hold the former president in high regard.

The apology followed recent statements by ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga and Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, who accused Kenyatta of attempting to interfere in the party’s internal affairs. Speaking earlier in the presence of President William Ruto, Wanga said ODM would resist any external efforts to divide its leadership, underscoring concerns about outside influence as the party repositions itself politically.