Nairobi — October 29, 2025
Kenya’s veteran trade unionist Francis Atwoli has urged ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna to steer clear of political confrontations and focus on preserving the unity of the party following the death of its long-time leader, Raila Odinga.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) boss described Raila as “the glue that united the party,” saying it was now up to the younger generation of leaders to protect his legacy.
“Senator Edwin Sifuna must now show maturity as he leads the ODM party,” Atwoli said. “My advice to Sifuna is this: remain calm, avoid unnecessary political wars, and honour Raila Odinga’s legacy by standing with the party during this sensitive period.”
Atwoli praised Sifuna’s recent show of solidarity when he read a party statement alongside Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother, calling it “a sign of wisdom and restraint.”
“Sifuna is now wise,” Atwoli added. “Those advising him to start small wars within the ODM party are not helping him.”
His comments come at a crucial moment for the Orange Democratic Movement, which has been grappling with questions about leadership and direction after Raila’s death. The party’s Central Management Committee on Monday named Oburu Odinga as interim leader and announced plans to begin a nationwide consolidation drive aimed at strengthening ODM’s grassroots networks ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sifuna, who also serves as Nairobi Senator, confirmed that the party would proceed with its 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa on November 15 and 16. The event, he said, will highlight Raila’s lifelong contribution to the party and the country.
The ODM Secretary General also announced a series of memorial events across the country, beginning in Kilifi on November 2–3 and continuing in Homa Bay and Migori counties on November 5–6.
“The party will hold various memorial events to enable us to engage with those inspired by Baba’s vision,” Sifuna said, referring to Raila by his popular nickname.
Raila’s passing has left a visible void in the country’s political landscape. For decades, he was both a rallying figure and a symbol of opposition politics in Kenya. His ability to hold together a party of diverse voices was seen as central to ODM’s endurance.
Atwoli’s intervention reflects a growing consensus among senior political figures that unity — not rivalry — will determine ODM’s survival in the post-Raila era. Whether the younger leaders can maintain that balance remains to be seen.
