Internal tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) escalated on Monday after Suna West MP Peter Masara led a strong defence of National Assembly Minority Whip Junet Mohamed, following a public rebuttal by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna that has sparked backlash from party leaders allied to Junet.
Masara was speaking during a press conference held at a Migori hotel and attended by over ten Migori County MCAs, party officials, the business community and members of the provincial administration.
Background: Sifuna’s Rebuttal and Accusations
The latest fallout follows recent public remarks by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, in which he openly criticized the conduct of some senior party leaders during and after recent electoral processes. In his rebuttal, Sifuna accused certain ODM power brokers of undermining internal democracy, mismanaging party affairs, and failing to pay party agents deployed during elections.
Sifuna specifically alleged that party agents in some regions were not compensated, an issue he said had been raised repeatedly without resolution. He further questioned the credibility and accountability of individuals tasked with overseeing party electoral operations, indirectly drawing attention to Junet Mohamed’s role as a senior party strategist and agent coordinator.
In his remarks, Sifuna argued that ODM risks losing its moral authority if internal grievances are ignored, insisting that transparency and accountability must apply to all leaders regardless of seniority. He also defended his decision to speak publicly, stating that internal channels had failed to adequately address the concerns he raised.
Additionally, Sifuna appeared to distance himself from ODM’s engagement with the broad-based government, suggesting that the party’s participation had diluted its opposition identity and compromised its reformist agenda—remarks that have since drawn sharp criticism from other ODM leaders.
Masara, Migori Leaders Push Back
Responding to these accusations, Masara accused Sifuna of violating party discipline and disregarding established ODM leadership structures.
“We are still in harmony as a party. We ask members and supporters to allow the family and followers to mourn. Raila Odinga’s contribution and legacy cannot be replaced by anyone,” Masara said, referring to the party’s founding leadership.
Masara called on Sifuna to respect party hierarchy and channel grievances through proper mechanisms, including the ODM Central Committee and senior party leaders such as Dr. Oburu Odinga.
“If there were issues like unpaid agents, why has he been quiet all this time? These matters were discussed at the Central Committee. ODM is a national party and must follow proper structures,” he said.
The Suna West MP also questioned Sifuna’s opposition to the broad-based government arrangement, noting that the ODM Secretary General was among those who endorsed the party’s 10-point agenda.
“You cannot oppose what you signed. As ODM members, we want total support for our party leadership for the sake of posterity,” Masara added.
Masara and the Migori leaders strongly defended Junet Mohamed against the accusations, dismissing claims that he failed to pay agents and demanding proof.
“Let those making these allegations produce evidence. How could Junet be a chief agent in Central? These accusations must be supported by facts,” Masara stated.
The leaders further accused Sifuna of publicly attacking the party while allegedly aligning himself with ODM’s political opponents.
“If you speak ill of the party and then associate with our opponents, it raises serious questions. These are attempts to scuttle ODM from within. Our problems should be resolved away from cameras,” Masara warned.
Citing recent by-elections, the speakers maintained that ODM remains a formidable national political force.
“Recent by-elections show ODM is still a force to reckon with. That is why everyone is jostling for space within the party,” Masara said.
The Migori leaders concluded by urging unity, discipline, and adherence to party structures, warning that public infighting could reverse gains made through years of political struggle and sacrifice.
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