The unfolding wrangles come at a sensitive time for the party, barely months after the death of its founder and long-time leader, Raila Odinga.
Sifuna has been under pressure for months, largely due to his outspoken stance against sections of the party that support the broad-based political arrangement with President William Ruto’s administration.
While Raila often stepped in to shield him from attacks, his absence has exposed Sifuna to intensified criticism from within ODM.
Political analyst Masibo Lumala argues that the push to replace Sifuna is driven by party officials who are currently benefiting from the broad-based government.
According to him, these leaders are seeking political security ahead of the 2027 elections and see alignment with President Ruto as a safer option.
Lumala notes that Sifuna represents continuity of Raila’s political legacy, including the idea that ODM should regroup and field its own presidential candidate in 2027.
This position has placed him at odds with leaders who fear losing influence without a powerful political patron.
The potential removal of Sifuna could have serious consequences for ODM’s national standing.
Lumala warns that the party risks shrinking into a regional outfit dominated by Luo politics if it alienates influential leaders from western Kenya.
Sifuna enjoys strong support among Luhya leaders, particularly in Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma and Vihiga counties.
His exit could trigger mass defections, weakening ODM’s grip in regions that have historically delivered crucial votes.
Despite the uncertainty, Lumala believes Sifuna would remain in ODM even if removed from office.
However, he predicts that the real damage would emerge closer to 2027, when political realignments intensify.
Tags
News