Edwin Sifuna Signals Exit from ODM, Eyes New Party for 2027 Presidential Bid

BUNGOMA, Kenya – Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has signalled that he is ready to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying he is looking for a new political party to support his 2027 presidential ambitions.

Sifuna made the announcement during a Linda Mwananchi political rally at Posta Grounds in Bungoma Town on Sunday. His remarks came weeks after ODM removed him as the party’s Secretary-General and stripped him of his Senate leadership position.

Addressing supporters, the Nairobi senator urged Kenyans to back a new political outfit that he said would carry his political agenda into the next General Election.

“My people, allow me to look for another political vehicle and support it because that is the vehicle that will take us to the ballot,” Sifuna told the crowd.

Sifuna Says ODM Has Lost Direction

Sifuna compared the turmoil within ODM to a family that had lost its head. He said the party had changed following the death of its longtime leader, Raila Odinga.

He claimed some individuals had taken advantage of the situation for personal gain despite his efforts to protect the party.

“Nobody anticipated Raila Odinga’s death. It is like a family where the father dies and people invade the home, steal what belongs to the widow and children and walk away with it,” he said.

The senator also expressed confidence that his political fortunes would improve despite losing key positions within the party.

“I have been stripped of my positions, but in less than 12 months everything I have lost will be restored,” he said.

Public Funding for Presidential Campaign

Sifuna dismissed claims that he lacked the financial resources to mount a presidential campaign.

He said ordinary Kenyans had already started contributing to his campaign through a public pay bill number. According to him, grassroots support is more valuable than funding from wealthy individuals seeking political favours.

“I would rather owe ordinary wananchi than receive Sh1 billion from individuals who will later come to State House demanding favours,” he said.

Opposition Leaders Back Sifuna

Several leaders attending the Bungoma rally declared their support for Sifuna’s presidential bid.

Siaya Governor James Orengo pledged to stand with Sifuna throughout the 2027 campaign. He also criticised the Kenya Kwanza administration, claiming it had failed to implement promises made under the broad-based government arrangement.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya dismissed reports of political rivalry with Sifuna. He urged the Western region to unite behind the Nairobi senator, saying the community had supported candidates from other regions for many years.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi revealed that plans were underway to form a new political party that would sponsor Sifuna’s presidential campaign.

“We are going to create a new party, and Sifuna will be its presidential candidate,” Osotsi said.

Calls for Opposition Unity

Bumula MP Jack Wamboka appealed to opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Eugene Wamalwa, Martha Karua and Rigathi Gachagua, to unite behind Sifuna.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also endorsed the Nairobi senator, saying Sifuna had stood by him during difficult moments in ODM.

2027 Political Realignment Takes Shape

The Bungoma rally marked Sifuna’s clearest indication yet that he intends to pursue a political future outside ODM. His remarks also signalled the beginning of a broader political realignment as opposition leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

With plans for a new political party already underway and growing support from sections of the opposition, Sifuna appears determined to mount a serious challenge for the presidency in 2027.