Sifuna Maintains One-Term Stance, Rejects Support for Ruto’s 2027 Re-election

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has reiterated his personal and party position against endorsing President William Ruto’s bid for a second term in the 2027 general election, emphasizing that he cannot be compelled to support the incumbent.

Addressing questions about ODM’s political direction, Sifuna stated firmly that he is “wa one term, proudly so” and therefore does not back President Ruto’s re-election campaign. He underscored that the party’s Central Management Committee has yet to make any definitive decision to support Ruto in 2027 and has instead resolved to begin consultations with various political formations. These consultations are expected to inform the party’s eventual position ahead of the next general election.

Sifuna also stressed that even within the broader party context, there is no obligation on his part to vote for Ruto, asserting that no one can compel him to do so should he choose otherwise. “I simply do not see a path to power for William Ruto,” he said, echoing his long-standing criticism of the president’s leadership and electoral prospects.

His remarks come amid broader internal discussions within ODM, where differing views have emerged on whether to pursue alliances — including with Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) — or to forge a standalone path with a presidential candidate of its own. In January, ODM’s central committee directed party leader Oburu Oginga to start formal talks with other political formations, beginning with UDA, as part of early pre-election consultations. 

Analysts say Sifuna’s position highlights ongoing debates within ODM about strategy and identity following the passing of former party leader Raila Odinga, with some senior members openly supporting closer cooperation with the ruling coalition while others insist on maintaining a clear opposition stance. 

As political players dig in ahead of the 2027 polls, Sifuna’s statements signal continued tension over how ODM navigates the country’s evolving political landscape.