Raila made the remarks on Friday, July 25, 2025, while addressing delegates at an ODM meeting in Kakamega County.
Raila stated that there was nothing wrong with Sifuna expressing his opinion on the controversial deal. He said Sifuna had exercised his democratic right and urged party members to respect freedom of speech within the party.
“Everyone has a right to speak their mind. That is democracy, and that is what ODM stands for,” Raila told the delegates.
Sifuna had earlier appeared on Citizen TV, where he stated that ODM was confused about the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it had signed with Kenya Kwanza.
He claimed the agreement was not being implemented and went further to say that the deal had already expired. These comments sparked intense debate, both within ODM and among the public.
Many leaders within the party expressed displeasure with Sifuna’s remarks, accusing him of speaking without consulting others. However, Raila strongly defended the Nairobi Senator, saying that open dialogue and internal disagreement should not be seen as disloyalty.
“If Sifuna has spoken, he has a right to do so. And if you disagree, speak up as well. That is how democracy works,” Raila said.
The former Prime Minister went on to criticize leaders who had taken their grievances to the media instead of using the proper party channels.
“We must not turn our newspapers and TV stations into our meeting rooms. ODM has internal structures like the Central Committee and the National Executive Committee. Those are the places to raise your issues,” he added.
Raila emphasized that as Secretary General, Sifuna holds the official role of party spokesperson. He explained that Sifuna speaks based on decisions made by the party, and if there is any change in position, it will come through proper discussions.
“We will meet, everyone will talk, and we will decide the way forward. Then Sifuna will communicate that decision,” Raila noted.
In addition to addressing the MoU dispute, Raila condemned rising tribal sentiments within the party. He warned against ethnic divisions and reminded delegates that ODM is a national party.
“ODM is not for one region or one community. It belongs to all Kenyans,” Raila said.
The ODM leader also revealed that the party will soon convene a high-level meeting to discuss and resolve issues surrounding the Kenya Kwanza agreement. He said a united position will be taken after all party organs have had their say.
“Once we reach a consensus, that decision will bind all members of the party,” he said.
Sifuna has not retracted his statements, nor has he issued further clarification. However, party insiders say he is likely to provide a formal update after the planned internal meetings. The controversy has exposed growing tensions within ODM over its relationship with Kenya Kwanza.
The original MoU between ODM and Kenya Kwanza was reportedly signed in early 2024 following talks aimed at easing political tensions in the country.
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