Raila Odinga: Sifuna, Gladys Wanga Disagree About ODM’s Direction After Their Leader’s Death

Edwin Sifuna gave a strong position about the direction of the ODM party during the funeral of the former leader of the party, Raila Odinga, and was applauded by the crowd of supporters
The Nairobi senator recounted how Raila guided him into the political arena and shared his final instructions about the party ahead of the 2027 General Election
Governor Gladys Wanga and some party leaders disagreed with him while continuing to show their loyalty to President William Ruto

Siaya: Secretary General of ODM Edwin Sifuna he has strongly rejected the call to join the broad coalition government, separating himself from some of his fellow members of the party who showed their willingness to cooperate with President William Ruto.

ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna has clashed with leaders who prove loyalty to the wider government. Photo: Edwin Sifuna.
Source: Facebook

His statement was made during the funeral of the former ODM party leader and former prime minister Raila Odingaheld on Sunday, October 19, at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo.

Addressing a jubilant but emotional crowd, Sifuna paid tribute to Raila, acknowledging the great influence the late leader had on his political journey.

Also read

Oburu Says President Ruto Paid For Raila’s Medical Trip To India Before His Death

He recounted a personal incident where he and Raila once discussed what the former prime minister would like to be said about his legacy should he die before him.

The reflection showed the depth of their relationship and the seriousness of the political tutelage he received from Raila.

Will Edwin Sifuna support a broad coalition government?

Sifuna used the platform to warn against divisive attitudes within ODM, urging unity and obedience to Raila’s last orders.

“I will not be among those who will destroy Raila Amolo Odinga’s party,” he announced with strong emotions. “ODM is one of Baba’s greatest legacies, and I will do everything I can to ensure that it remains one even in the face of open aggression.”

He emphasized that Raila had spoken clearly to the nation on September 22, 2025, about the direction of ODM.

According to Sifuna, who is also a Nairobi senator, Raila had instructed the party to prepare for the 2027 elections and did not give permission to change the direction of the party.

“Let no one put words in the mouth of someone who is now asleep,” said Sifuna, referring to Raila’s famous words: “Who told you?” a statement that was applauded by the crowd.

Also read

Olusegun Obasanjo, President William Ruto among the leaders who attended the funeral of Raila Odinga

Sifuna’s statements were rejected by other ODM leaders present at the funeral, including the national chairman Gladys Wanga and Raila’s sister, Rose Odinga.

Wanga emphasized that Raila left the party within the broad coalition government, warning against efforts to distort his message.

“Raila gave us clear instructions. We are in a broad coalition government, yes but don’t cause confusion,” he said.

Tensions within ODM have been increasing, with some leaders wanting Sifuna to be removed because of his opposition to the broad coalition government plan.

However, his position was supported by some leaders and allies, including Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino.

Along with other ODM leaders, Sifuna promised to unite under the movement One Kenyafighting for democracy, unity, and the voice of the people.

What did Raila say about the ODM-UDA agreement?

In his last public speech along Mombasa Road in Machakos County, Raila emphasized the importance of ODM unity and loyalty to the 10-point agenda under the ODM-UDA agreement.

Raila Odinga said that the ODM party has not discussed an agreement with the UDA beyond 2027. — Raila Odinga, former prime minister of Kenya. Photo: Raila Odinga.
Source: Twitter

He reminded the members of the party that they agreed to work until 2027 and warned against making premature decisions about the upcoming elections.

Also read

A video of Uhuru Kenyatta crying shortly after Raila Odinga’s death has gone viral

Raila emphasized that no official resolutions had been passed regarding the party’s election strategy, and urged leaders to avoid directing ODM in any direction without internal party consultation.

As ODM grapples with internal divisions and external pressure, Sifuna’s defiance reflects the larger struggle over the future of the party and the lasting influence of Raila’s last words.

Other things to know about Raila’s death and ODM leadership:

President William Ruto he disclosed the details of the agreement between UDA and ODM towards the 2027 elections.
The Bishop of the ACK Church encouraged leaders to imitate Raila’s spirit of listening, asking them to give priority to the views of the people.
Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed claimed that he will be the chairman of the “political orphans” left after Raila.

What caused the death of Raila Odinga?

Meanwhile, the former prime minister and opposition leader died of a heart attack on Wednesday, October 15, while receiving treatment in India.

He collapsed during a walk around the hospital and was later pronounced dead in the intensive care unit after efforts to revive him failed.

According to his brother, Senator Oburu Oginga, Raila had a blood clotting problem that was difficult to control in this country, and the drugs he was taking made him more tired.