Kenya Insights

Tag: ODM Politics

  • Oparanya Faces Leaders’ Wrath For Claiming Raila Has Lost Western Grip

    Oparanya Faces Leaders’ Wrath For Claiming Raila Has Lost Western Grip

    KAKAMEGA – Political temperatures in Western Kenya have flared after former Kakamega Governor and current Cabinet Secretary for SMEs, Wycliffe Oparanya, declared that ODM leader Raila Odinga has lost his political sway in the region.

    Oparanya, speaking on Friday at an empowerment event hosted by Lurambi MP Titus Khamala, said Odinga’s influence in Western politics had waned and would be of little help to Governor Fernandes Barasa in his 2027 re-election bid.

    “What makes you think Raila Odinga will come and help you get votes here in Kakamega? I know Raila more than you think you know him, and he will not help you,” Oparanya said, in remarks made before National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and several MPs.

    The statement drew immediate backlash from Governor Barasa, who accused Oparanya of undermining Odinga’s legacy despite having benefited immensely from his support.

    “With all due respect, you are the last person who should question Odinga’s influence in Western Kenya. Raila has held your hand for a very long time in your political career,” Barasa said on Saturday while addressing mourners at the burial of Mama Grace Nyona in Likuyani Constituency.

    Barasa went further, suggesting Oparanya’s cabinet appointment was secured through Odinga’s backing. “If you think he is not influential enough, then resign from the position he helped you get. If not for him, then you would not be serving in the cabinet right now,” he added.

    The Kakamega governor also defended his own political standing, warning Oparanya against belittling his chances. “I want to tell our elder Oparanya that you underestimate Barasa at your own risk. I was elected by the people, and we are focused on service delivery. When politics come, we will hit the road,” he said.

    Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe also joined the fray, cautioning leaders against dismissing Raila’s role in the country’s politics. “Raila has been a very respectable leader in this country for decades. Baba, wherever you are, know that we support you and respect you as our party leader,” Mugabe said.

    The row between Oparanya and Barasa is the latest episode in an escalating power struggle within ODM in Kakamega, which widened after the hotly contested county chairmanship elections where Barasa defeated Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera—an ally of Oparanya.

    The fallout has since split the party into rival camps, with Barasa’s allies rallying behind him, while Oparanya leads a faction grouped under the so-called “G-8” umbrella.

    Analysts say the feud reflects a deeper battle over Western Kenya’s political future as Odinga eyes retirement from frontline politics, leaving room for new power brokers to emerge.

  • Is Sifuna Ready to Resign From ODM? The Real Motive Behind the Rhetoric

    Is Sifuna Ready to Resign From ODM? The Real Motive Behind the Rhetoric

    Outspoken Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has once again sparked intense political debate after saying he is ready to quit his position if the party leadership demands it.

    His statement, made during a Citizen TV interview, comes at a time when ODM is facing internal rifts and growing criticism from its base over its warming ties with President Ruto’s administration.

    But while Sifuna claims he’s willing to step aside, many within political circles believe it’s all a game—a carefully crafted act to shift blame and exit ODM on his own terms.

    It’s all political theater. A performance aimed at surviving the next act of Kenya’s ever-turbulent opposition politics. The real question isn’t whether Sifuna will leave—it’s whether ODM will call his bluff. [Photo: Courtesy]

    Sifuna Is Not Ready to Resign From ODM

    Despite his public statements, Sifuna has no intention of resigning from ODM — at least not voluntarily. Political insiders say he is strategically playing the long game. His latest interview was not a show of loyalty or humility, but a calculated attempt to paint himself as a victim.

    Sifuna knows that walking away from the powerful SG seat would make him look weak. But being fired? That would give him a badge of honour in certain circles.

    He is not looking for an exit—he’s waiting for a push. Sources close to the party leadership reveal that Sifuna has been at odds with ODM’s evolving position, especially its recent rapprochement with the Kenya Kwanza regime.

    He remains vocal against any perceived cooperation with Ruto, a stance that contradicts recent overtures by party leader Raila Odinga. But instead of outright quitting in protest, Sifuna is playing the victim card.

    He wants to be removed so he can claim moral high ground and head to Wamunyoro for political “cleansing”—a move designed to position him for a comeback, possibly in a new outfit.

    He said during the interview, “If that same person calls me today and says Sifuna, I have lost confidence in your ability to do this job… I would relinquish it without blinking.” That sounds noble, but it’s a tra—he’s hoping for that call, not dreading it.

    Theatrics or Loyalty? Why Sifuna Is Still Holding On

    Sifuna may say he’s ready to go, but his actions speak louder. He continues to hold the SG position, defend ODM’s policies publicly, and remain a central figure in opposition strategies. If he truly wanted to leave, he could. But instead, he stays — toeing the party line when convenient and rebelling when it suits his personal brand.

    His refusal to jump ship reveals something deeper: Sifuna still needs the ODM platform.

    As Nairobi Senator and a prominent face of the party, leaving would cost him political capital—especially with the 2027 elections fast approaching. He cannot afford to be partyless or seen as disloyal to Raila Odinga. So he walks a tightrope—criticizing ODM’s missteps while clinging to its structure.

    He even said, “I have not given up on members of the ODM.” That sounds like a committed party soldier, but it’s more of a delay tactic. The moment the internal political cost of staying outweighs the external gain of victimhood, he’ll bol—butt only if pushed first.

    For now, Sifuna continues to portray himself as a reformer trying to bring the party back to its roots. He insists that ODM still has credible leaders and that the party can deliver in 2027. But he also draws lines, rejecting links to smaller parties like the Green Thinking Action Party, signaling he’s not ready to downgrade himself politically.

    ODM’s Next Move and Sifuna’s Endgame

    ODM is preparing for its National Delegates Convention (NDC) in October 2025. This event will determine whether Sifuna remains Secretary General or not. It also presents the party with a rare opportunity to realign leadership in preparation for the 2027 elections. The stakes are high.

    If the ODM leadership wants to rebrand and show unity, Sifuna’s removal might become a political necessity. He knows this, and he’s already setting the stage for how he will spin his departure.

    If he’s ousted, expect a dramatic press conference and a pilgrimage to Wamunyoro—the symbolic place where fresh opposition figures seek cleansing and new beginnings.

    In the interview, Sifuna said, “The day I give up, I will say it publicly that I have lost the battle to rescue this party.” That moment may come sooner than expected—but not as a resignation. He’s building a narrative. When he finally exits, it won’t be because he gave up.

    It will be because he was “sacrificed” by a party that no longer shares his vision—a claim that would earn him sympathy and set him up for his next political move.

    In truth, Sifuna is not ready to resign from ODM. He wants to be fired.

  • Hassan Joho Endorses Ruto for 2027, Declares 2032 Presidential Run

    Hassan Joho Endorses Ruto for 2027, Declares 2032 Presidential Run

    Hassan Joho has finally cleared the air. After months of speculation, the flamboyant former Mombasa governor and current Mining Cabinet Secretary has made it official — he will run for president in 2032.

    At a charged rally in Garsen, Tana River County, Joho not only declared his presidential ambitions but also publicly backed President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

    The announcement marks a major political realignment and signals Joho’s strategic patience. By endorsing Ruto now and sitting out 2027, Joho is positioning himself as a future contender with national appeal and political maturity.

    Hassan Joho Endorses Ruto for 2027, Declares 2032 Presidential Run
    The Hassan Joho 2032 Presidential Run is no longer a rumor — it’s a well-calculated, public declaration of intent. By endorsing Ruto now, Joho gains valuable time, influence, and visibility. He separates himself from old opposition tactics and aligns himself with power while laying the groundwork for a serious presidential bid. [Photo: Courtesy]

    Why Hassan Joho 2032 Presidential Run Begins with Ruto’s Endorsement

    Speaking to a sea of supporters in Garsen, Joho declared his full support for Ruto’s presidency and stated that he would only seek the presidency after Ruto completes his second term in 2032.

    “We will hold William Ruto’s hand and accompany him, whatever it takes. Once he clocks 2032, we will be waiting for that seat,” Joho proclaimed, triggering loud applause.

    This move puts Joho on a long-term political path, signaling the start of his national campaign. While critics have questioned ODM’s decision to collaborate with the Kenya Kwanza administration, Joho defended the shift and warned against being dragged into unnecessary political feuds.

    “We from the Coast can’t be taken to a fight that is not ours. We cannot be used as weapons to fight people who are not our enemies,” he said.

    By refusing to fight “other people’s battles,” Joho distanced himself from opposition hardliners still pushing confrontational politics. He also reassured President Ruto of full backing from the coastal voting bloc, saying the Head of State had already made major inroads in the region.

    Joho’s Shift from Coastal Kingpin to National Contender

    Joho’s rise from a Mombasa strongman to a national figure has not been accidental. In 2024, he made it clear that he had outgrown county politics and was now aiming for the top seat. He openly rejected suggestions to return to local office.

    “I want to tell them I am done with Mombasa politics; I am now focusing on national politics,” Joho declared months before his appointment to the Cabinet.

    His transition to the Mining docket gave him a new platform to interact with diverse communities, gain national exposure, and build alliances across party lines. His recent moves show he’s not just waiting for 2032 — he’s laying a strong foundation now.

    Interestingly, ODM party leader Raila Odinga has in the past hinted that Joho would eventually be the party’s flagbearer. Raila has repeatedly said that no political seat in ODM is reserved for anyone, possibly setting the stage for an internal contest.

    With Raila now warming up to a working relationship with Ruto’s government and even taking on AU roles, the ODM power vacuum could open doors for Joho to rise.

    Joho, Babu Owino, and the Battle for ODM’s Future

    As Raila gradually exits active politics, the race to fill his shoes is intensifying. Joho’s strategic move could place him at the front of the queue. However, he is not alone.

    Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, a fellow ODM member, has also thrown his hat in the presidential ring. In April, Owino claimed that he is the only Kenyan capable of defeating Ruto in a presidential contest.

    “I am overqualified for the position. I relate with the suffering of ordinary Kenyans because I have lived through their struggles,” he said.

    While Owino brings youth, energy, and grassroots appeal, Joho carries experience, national connections, and a Cabinet post that could expand his reach further. The coming years may see a fierce rivalry between these two within ODM — or a surprising alliance.

    But unlike Babu, Joho is not rushing. By backing Ruto in 2027, he avoids a direct fight now, builds goodwill with the current administration, and keeps ODM’s house from falling apart.

    Conclusion

    As the political climate shifts, the country will watch closely. Will Joho emerge as Raila Odinga’s true political heir? Will he hold the coastal bloc together while expanding nationally? One thing is clear — the 2027 election may belong to Ruto, but 2032 has a new contender, and his name is Hassan Joho.