Source: Facebook
Kisumu, June 16, 2024 — Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna issued a stern warning to his colleague, Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, at the funeral of Ojienda’s mother in Nyakach Constituency.
Sifuna, who is also the Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), cautioned Ojienda against aligning with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), suggesting such a move could jeopardize his political career.
During the event on June 15, Sifuna addressed the gathered mourners and political figures, voicing his concerns about Ojienda's recent associations with UDA members.
Sifuna alleged that Ojienda’s new political allies were deceiving him, aiming to weaken his chances in the 2027 elections.
He advised Ojienda to remain loyal to ODM, the party that supported his Senate bid, warning that straying from ODM could cost him his seat and future leadership roles in Kisumu.
“Tom, I urge you to avoid getting into conflicts with me because of your recent losses. Your political future depends on staying within ODM. Those around you are misleading you to ensure your defeat. If you leave this party, leading Kisumu will be out of reach for you,” Sifuna declared.
In his address, Sifuna also mentioned his recent efforts to rally ODM MPs against the Finance Bill 2024. He revealed that he had sent out 86 letters to ODM parliamentarians, urging them to remain in the country and vote against the bill.
He criticized the bill’s heavy taxes and highlighted his opposition to justifications made for infrastructure development and the hiring of junior secondary teachers.
Additionally, Sifuna expressed surprise at Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent criticisms of his own government colleagues.
He questioned how Gachagua, a senior government figure, could be the only one raising concerns about government actions that he believed were disrespecting Kenyans.
The event took a dramatic turn when mourners began to leave after Sifuna’s speech. This reaction underscored the tension and divisions within the political sphere, particularly concerning the alliances and future strategies of key figures like Ojienda and Sifuna.
Ojienda acknowledged Sifuna’s position as his party’s secretary general, but defended his own actions and support for the Kenya Kwanza government. Despite this, Sifuna remained firm, urging unity and loyalty within ODM to maintain political strength and cohesion ahead of the next elections.
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