Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has reaffirmed his party’s commitment to meaningful political change while firing back at both internal and external critics over his hardline stance on national dialogue and youth participation.
As ODM sharpens its strategy ahead of 2027, Sifuna’s role and voice remain critical, albeit controversial.
Speaking during the ODM National Delegates Conference (NDC) held in Kakamega on July 25, 2025, Sifuna expressed deep scepticism over the proposed national dialogue, dismissing it as a political sideshow designed to pacify opposition voices rather than initiate real reform.
“I want to tell you that the youth and other generations are ready for the intergenerational conclave. But they want an assurance that there will be no consequences afterwards,” Sifuna declared.
The “intergenerational conclave” refers to a proposed platform meant to bring together youth and older leaders across political divides to chart Kenya’s future. Sifuna insisted that such efforts must be authentic and free of political coercion or retaliation, particularly against young participants.
In his trademark fiery style, Sifuna accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of exploiting the dialogue process as a public relations gimmick while sidelining real grievances affecting Kenyans, such as the cost of living, youth unemployment, and corruption.
“We cannot be part of window-dressing exercises. This country deserves a dialogue that leads to change, not one that buries dissent,” he said.
However, Sifuna’s confrontational approach has ruffled feathers within ODM itself. He said that a faction of more moderate leaders, especially those who favour engagement with the government, is growing increasingly uneasy with his rhetoric.
Some are said to be lobbying for his removal as secretary general, arguing that his tone could isolate ODM from key national conversations.
Sifuna did not shy away from addressing internal dissent.
“They hate me because I say my party is ODM. They hate me for standing firm for the party’s principles,” he said defiantly. “But I will not apologise for standing up for the values we have fought for all these years.”
