Junet Mohamed Dares Sifuna, Fires Back at SG After Apology to Uhuru Sparks ODM Fallout

Divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) spilled into the open on Tuesday night after National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed openly challenged party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, exposing growing tensions at the top of the opposition outfit.

The clash was triggered by Sifuna’s strong defence of former president Uhuru Kenyatta during the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo in Kakamega, an event Uhuru attended.

While addressing mourners, Sifuna apologised to the retired president over repeated attacks directed at him by senior ODM figures. 

The Nairobi senator accused some party leaders of political ingratitude, reminding them of Uhuru’s support for Raila Odinga during the 2022 General Election.

Sifuna said Uhuru stood with Raila at a critical moment when many had abandoned the opposition leader, arguing that such loyalty should not be forgotten.

“As long as I remain the Secretary General of ODM, I want to apologise to Uhuru Kenyatta for the insults coming from some of our leaders who have short memories,” Sifuna said.

He added that ODM owed Uhuru respect and gratitude for the sacrifices he made during the 2022 campaign.

The secretary general went further to describe some party figures as reckless and ungrateful, using symbolism and cultural references to criticise leaders who turn against allies after benefiting politically.

His remarks immediately drew a sharp response from Junet Mohamed, who has been among ODM leaders critical of Uhuru in recent weeks.

In a defiant post shared on X, the Suna East MP dismissed Sifuna’s remarks and embraced the label used by the secretary general to describe Uhuru’s critics.

“I will be the spokesperson of the ‘washenzi’ group in the mighty ODM party. Without fear or favour. Tuko tayari,” Junet wrote.

Junet’s response signalled open defiance of the party secretary general and deepened the visible rift within ODM, raising questions about unity, leadership, and direction as the 2027 General Election approaches.

The exchange did not occur in isolation. In recent weeks, sections of ODM’s top leadership have accused Uhuru of interfering with the party’s internal affairs, allegations the former president has denied.

ODM chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has previously accused Uhuru of using insiders to weaken the party, remarks she made in the presence of President William Ruto.

Junet has aligned himself with leaders who believe Uhuru’s influence poses a threat to ODM’s cohesion, especially at a time when the party is cooperating with the Kenya Kwanza administration under the broad-based government arrangement.