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Sifuna explains attending same event with Gachagua
04th February, 2026 01:09 AM
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has said he will not isolate himself to please some people.
In a candid interview with a local TV station on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Sifuna stated that he cannot fail to attend events just because the Democracy for Citizens’ Party (DCP) Leader Rigathi Gachagua is present.
Respect comes first
He went on to state that attending a colleague’s burial is about respect, not politics.
“I am too big to be anyone’s mole. People should be Sifuna’s mole.
“You are not going to stop me from attending a burial of a colleague, when a colleague has been bereaved, just because Gachagua is going to be there. I will go to that burial,” Sifuna said.
Sifuna also reflected on the guidance he received from the late Raila Odinga, who encouraged him to develop a thick skin.
“Raila told me, in my position as SG, I must accept that I will be criticised and they will spread rumours about me, but I must remain focused,” Sifuna said.
On his relationship with Oketch Salah, the self-proclaimed son of Raila, Sifuna recalled their first meeting on the day of Raila’s funeral.
Sifuna meets Oketch Salah
“I remember taking note of Oketch Salah on the day that Baba died. The President had already come in and was in the middle of passing his condolences to Mama Ida when suddenly there was commotion.
Somebody just burst in, and everybody was in shock. That was my formal introduction to Oketch Salah,” he said.
Sifuna’s remarks highlight the balance he seeks between showing respect for colleagues and managing the scrutiny that comes with public office.
His insistence on attending events regardless of political affiliations underlines his commitment to protocol, courtesy, and solidarity with fellow leaders in moments of grief.
The senator’s stance comes amid debates on political lines and personal loyalties, with some critics questioning his presence alongside politicians from other parties. Sifuna’s message, however, is clear: personal and professional respect will not be sacrificed for political convenience.
He concluded by reiterating that criticism and rumours are part of public life, but that maintaining dignity and attending to one’s duties remain paramount.
