Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has given his clearest indication yet that he is preparing to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), telling supporters that he is searching for a new political vehicle to carry his ambitions into the 2027 General Election.
The remarks, made during a Linda Mwananchi rally at Posta Grounds in Bungoma on Sunday, come weeks after Sifuna was removed as ODM's Secretary-General and lost his Senate leadership position, developments that have fuelled speculation over his future in the party.
Addressing supporters, the senator said the time had come to begin a new political journey.
"My people, allow me to look for another political vehicle and support it because that is the vehicle that will take us to the ballot," Sifuna told the crowd.
His comments point to a widening rift within ODM following the recent leadership changes that have reshaped the party.
Sifuna likened the party's internal turmoil to a family struggling after the loss of its patriarch, arguing that the organisation had changed in ways few members had anticipated.
"Nobody anticipated Raila Odinga's death. It is like a family where the father dies and people invade the home, steal what belongs to the widow and children and walk away with it," he said.
He added that although he had pledged not to divide the party founded by Raila Odinga, personal interests among some leaders had weakened it from within.
Despite losing influential positions, Sifuna struck a confident tone, telling supporters that his political fortunes would soon recover.
"I have been stripped of my positions, but in less than 12 months everything I have lost will be restored," he said.
The senator also dismissed suggestions that a lack of financial resources would undermine his presidential ambitions.
Instead, he said his campaign was drawing strength from ordinary Kenyans making small public contributions.
"They say we do not have money to run a presidential campaign. From Kitale to Bungoma, members of the public have continued contributing through our pay bill number. I would rather owe ordinary wananchi than receive Sh1 billion from individuals who will later come to State House demanding favours," he said.
The rally evolved into a show of support from several opposition leaders, many of whom endorsed Sifuna's growing national profile.
Siaya Governor James Orengo said he would stand behind the Nairobi senator throughout the 2027 campaign.
"As the leader of Linda Mwananchi, I will stand with Sifuna all the way. The journey to 2027 has started, and we must be prepared," Orengo said.
Orengo also criticised the Kenya Kwanza administration, arguing that commitments made under the broad-based government had not been fully implemented. He further warned against any attempt to undermine the credibility of the 2027 General Election.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya also dismissed suggestions of rivalry with Sifuna, saying he had set aside his own ambitions to support the senator.
"Many people thought we would fight, but I have decided to support Sifuna because when leaders come together, victory is achieved," Natembeya said.
He urged the Western Kenya region to unite behind Sifuna, arguing that it was time for the community to rally around one of its own.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi disclosed that discussions were underway to establish a new political party that would sponsor Sifuna's presidential campaign.
"We are going to create a new party, and Sifuna will be its presidential candidate so that as he negotiates with other leaders, he does so from the position of a presidential candidate," Osotsi said.
He added that any coalition seeking support from Western Kenya would have to engage Sifuna as one of the region's principal political figures.
Bumula MP Jack Wamboka appealed to opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang'i, Eugene Wamalwa, Martha Karua and Rigathi Gachagua, to unite behind Sifuna's candidature.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also backed the Nairobi senator, recalling Sifuna's support during challenging moments within ODM.
While Sifuna has not formally announced his resignation from the party, Sunday's remarks represent his strongest indication yet that he intends to pursue his political future outside ODM as preparations for the 2027 election gather momentum.