Wanjala Blasts Luo-Nyanza Leaders Over Sifuna Attacks, Tells Raila to Stop Tribal Politics in ODM

Last Updated on July 25, 2025 by Turkana County News Online

Budalangi Member of Parliament Raphael Wanjala has come out strongly against Luo-Nyanza leaders pushing for the resignation of ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, accusing them of promoting tribalism and threatening the party’s national unity.

Speaking at the ODM delegates conference held in Kakamega on Friday, Wanjala urged party leader Raila Odinga to step in and stop the growing ethnic tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement, warning that continued tribal influence could lead to the party’s downfall.

“I want you to go back to Nyanza and speak to them in vernacular that the ODM party is not a party for Luos. It is a party for all Kenyans,” Wanjala said to loud applause.

He criticized leaders who have made tribal remarks or suggested that party loyalty should be based on ethnic identity, calling such rhetoric dangerous and divisive.

“When one stands to speak and tells others to exit the party because of their tribe, what will become of ODM when we all leave?” he posed.

Wanjala also came to the defense of Edwin Sifuna, saying the Secretary-General should be protected from political attacks disguised as tribal grievances. He maintained that Sifuna’s leadership should be judged on performance and commitment to the party — not his ethnicity.

The remarks come amid rising tension within ODM, particularly from sections of Luo-Nyanza leadership who have expressed dissatisfaction with Sifuna’s position and decisions in the party.

Wanjala’s comments are the latest signal of deepening cracks within ODM, as the party grapples with internal power struggles and a shifting political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.