Confusion is deepening within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with cracks widening over the party’s engagement in the Kenya Kwanza–Azimio cooperation, particularly following sharp remarks made by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna against President William Ruto.

With ODM party leader Raila Odinga back in the country from an international assignment, pressure is mounting on him to clarify whether Sifuna’s views reflect the party’s position or are personal.

Some party members are demanding disciplinary action against Sifuna if he is acting unilaterally.

At an event in Garissa hosted by Governor Nathif Jama, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi publicly distanced the party from Sifuna’s sentiments, stating they do not represent the official stance of ODM.

“For Sifuna, it is personal. You cannot ask us to hate Ruto just because you do,” said Governor Abdullahi, emphasising that the party should not be forced into unnecessary hostilities based on individual views.

The Governor, a senior ODM member, has been at the forefront in advocating for engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration, especially in the North Eastern region, where several leaders have benefited from closer ties with the national government.

“Riggy G has nothing to offer, but we listen to the ground,” he added, in a veiled swipe at Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Garissa Senator Abdul Haji, a Jubilee Party member under the Azimio coalition, also sided with the pro-Ruto position, stating that leaders in the region will continue aligning with the government to deliver development for their people.

“Tunasikiza ground, and the ground wants development. We are focused on results, not political drama,” said Haji.

Sifuna has come under fire for remarks viewed as undermining the working relationship between ODM and President Ruto’s administration, accusing the ruling coalition of sidelining ODM and violating the principles of cooperation.

But Abdullahi, responding to residents’ concerns during the event, dismissed the Secretary General’s statements as “not reflective of the party’s official position”, and urged ODM to focus on realignment ahead of 2027 — especially in key regions such as North Eastern that hold considerable electoral weight.

The latest developments have sparked renewed political tension within ODM, with close allies of Raila Odinga demanding that he either publicly back Sifuna or distance the party from his rhetoric.

As political temperatures rise, all eyes are now on Odinga to either rein in his Secretary General or offer a definitive position on the ODM–Kenya Kwanza engagement moving forward.