Orengo Hails Sifuna as ODM’s Pillar, ‘Losing Him Would Be a Big Blow’
Siaya Governor James Orengo has defended ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, calling him a crucial pillar in the party’s leadership and warning that losing him would deal a significant blow to the Orange Democratic Movement.
Speaking on Wednesday, Orengo commended Sifuna’s energy and influence within ODM, noting that few political parties in Kenya enjoy such visible and effective leadership.
He described Sifuna as an exceptional leader.
“In terms of all these parties, I think ODM has got a secretary-general,” Orengo said on Nation FM.
“If you ask who the secretary-general of these other parties is, it will take a lot of time to remember who they are. He’s a wonderful individual, and it would be a great loss not to have Edwin Sifuna as the Secretary-General—and that’s how dynamic the party is.”
Orengo at the same time outlined strategies to help ODM navigate the leadership transition that will follow Raila Odinga’s eventual exit.
Kenya’s largest opposition party is preparing to celebrate its 20th anniversary since its official registration with the Electoral Commission of Kenya, two years after the 2005 constitutional referendum.
Orengo, a long-time ally of ODM leader Raila Odinga, reiterated that the party’s real strength lies in its openness and internal democracy. He stressed that ODM must remain true to its founding principles and preserve its identity as a movement built on values and integrity.
He dismissed suggestions that ODM functions as a personality cult, stressing that it remains a platform where leaders are free to express independent views.
“ODM is not a party that belongs to praise and worship; we have got elements that can speak truth to power. In as much as we are partly in the government, we are in government, albeit not structurally. It is not a coalition but an arrangement,” he stated.
Ahead of the milestone celebrations, the veteran lawyer emphasized the importance of keeping ODM’s progressive spirit alive, saying the party must continue to champion social justice, equity, and democracy.
“It all depends on what we do. If we keep it progressive, then it can survive. If it’s based on individuals, based on personalities, then ODM may not really survive the test of time and be a great party and celebrate a centenary as ANC has done in South Africa,” he opined.
Orengo further stressed the need for the party to maintain its identity while creating space for diverse voices and opinions as a true reflection of democracy.
“The question and element of the core principle and ethos of the party and its political blueprint are very crucial. An example is if at all every member can freely express his opinion without fear, which I feel is not really the case,” he added.
