Sifuna a Sponsored Agent, Says Eldoret-Based Human Rights Activist

An Eldoret-based human rights activist, Kipkorir Ngetich, has strongly criticized ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna over what he termed as “indiscipline and reckless conduct” during public addresses, particularly at funerals, calling his recent remarks at the burial of the late Cyrus Jirongo inappropriate and disrespectful.

In a statement released on Sunday, Ngetich said leaders should exercise restraint, decorum, and respect when addressing mourners, noting that funerals are solemn occasions and not platforms for political confrontation.

“What we witnessed at Jirongo’s funeral was unfortunate. The tone, language, and posture adopted by Senator Sifuna portrayed arrogance and irresponsibility, especially in a mourning setting,” Ngetich said. “Leaders must remember to respect the deceased, the bereaved family, and fellow leaders.”

The activist accused the ODM Secretary General of hypocrisy, arguing that while Sifuna publicly praises the legacy of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga, his actions undermine the foundations and bridges Raila built over years of political engagement and national cohesion.

Ngetich further alleged that Sifuna is engaging in opportunistic politics aimed at destabilizing the broad-based government arrangement, which he said was engineered through cooperation between President William Ruto and the late Raila Odinga for the sake of national unity.

“He is consistently attacking and demonizing the President and his government with the intention of provoking anger among UDA supporters, a move that risks destabilizing the broad-based government,” Ngetich claimed, cautioning members of UDA against what he described as “dirty propaganda tricks.”

The activist went on to allege that Sifuna is being sponsored by external political actors, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, with the aim of weakening ODM from within and pushing it out of the broad-based arrangement. He described Sifuna as “a dangerous mole and spy within the party,” allegations that remain unverified.

Ngetich emphasized that ODM remains an independent political party with established governance structures, noting that President Ruto has never called for its dissolution, but has instead publicly urged the party to strengthen itself.

“Attempts to intimidate and harass ODM’s current leadership for personal or external interests should be resisted,” he said.

He also challenged Senator Sifuna to resign from ODM and seek re-election under a different political party if he believes he has sufficient support, particularly outside Nairobi.

According to Ngetich, the continued public attacks on leaders such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and others demonstrate what he termed as “misplaced arrogance and unfit conduct for leadership.”

“Divergent views can be expressed respectfully. Leaders deserve respect, especially at public functions. Funerals are not political rallies,” he said.

Ngetich concluded by calling on the ODM fraternity to safeguard the party’s unity and legacy, insisting that honoring the memory and ideals of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga requires discipline, respect, and commitment to peace and national stability.