Sifuna calls on Ruto to step down for Raila in 2027
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has stirred political controversy by suggesting that President William Ruto should step aside and back Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga for the presidency in 2027, if the broad-based government currently being pushed by the Kenya Kwanza administration is genuine.
Speaking at a fundraiser in Migori County on May 17, 2025, Sifuna—who also serves as the Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)—dismissed the inclusivity narrative being pushed by Ruto’s allies, insisting that any genuine power-sharing deal must reflect in leadership decisions at the highest level.
“If you love this broad-based government so much, and as Kiborek has said, when work became too much for Ruto, he came looking for Raila who is now holding this government together, then in 2027, Ruto should step back and let Baba (Raila) lead,” Sifuna told a cheering crowd.
“That’s the only broad-based government that Sifuna will recognise – Ruto finishing his term in 2027 and handing over to Baba because Baba is the one doing the work now, isn’t he?” he added.
ODM’s political stance
According to Sifuna, ODM has not shelved its future political ambitions despite being in the broad-based government.
“We held grassroots elections here. I know there were challenges here and there, but we’ll resolve them. We’re doing all this to prepare our party to contest the presidency in 2027. We haven’t abandoned our ambition to lead this nation. So stay ready!” Sifuna declared.
The senator reiterated ODM’s readiness for the 2027 elections, addressing misconceptions about the party’s role in the current power-sharing arrangement.
“I was there when we signed the MOU. I’ve read and understood it, and I will explain what it says. The MOU does not state that ODM will not field a presidential candidate in 2027,” Sifuna clarified.
“The MOU states that the Kenya Kwanza government will respect the constitution and all laws,” he added.
Security concerns
Sifuna also expressed deep concerns about security issues in the country, citing recent incidents of violence against politicians.
He accused the government of failing to guarantee security to politicians, citing the killing of Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were, who was shot in unclear circumstances.
“We said the government should respect the constitution, and there should be no security incidents in Kenya. Recently, we buried Kasipul MP who was shot by people who, until today, we haven’t been told who sent those thugs to shoot Hon. Ong’ondo Were,” he said.
He also mentioned news about Mumias East MP Peter Salasya, who he says was attacked on his way to Isiolo by unknown assailants who shot at his vehicle and was reportedly detained by unidentified individuals.
“His car was shot at, and we hear he’s been taken, but we don’t know by whom. Let those talking about “broad-based” government come here and tell us if this is what we agreed upon,” Sifuna challenged.
