Robert Alai Claims ODM Is Using Sifuna to Blackmail Ruto Amid Rising Political Tensions - K21

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Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Robert Alai Claims ODM Is Using Sifuna to Blackmail Ruto Amid Rising Political Tensions

Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly Robert Alai has stirred political debate after alleging that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is using Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna to influence or pressure President William Ruto.

In a statement shared on April 8, 2026, Alai claimed that ODM leadership has turned internal party matters into a broader political strategy aimed at engaging the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). 

He suggested that Sifuna is being used as a key figure in this approach, describing the situation as a form of political blackmail.

According to Alai, ODM initially intended to address internal party leadership issues, including the position held by Sifuna as Secretary General. He alleged that plans to remove him were part of the agenda during party meetings but were later altered.

“Kuna MCHEZO ODM leaders seem to be playing here, and it’s just not right,” Alai wrote on social media, hinting at hidden political maneuvers within the party.

He further claimed that decisions made by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to remove Sifuna were not implemented due to interference from unnamed strategists within ODM. 

Alai suggested that Sifuna has instead been positioned in a way that allows him to act as a counterbalance in dealings with the ruling party.

Alai also pointed out what he views as inconsistencies in how ODM handles internal dissent. He noted that while some party members have faced disciplinary action, others, including Sifuna, have not been subjected to similar measures.

He argued that this selective treatment indicates the presence of a broader political plan within the party. According to him, certain individuals are being protected because of their roles in ongoing political engagements.

Alai went further to claim that ODM’s strategy involves maintaining influence over political negotiations with UDA, suggesting that some leaders believe they can use internal party figures to gain leverage. 

He expressed confidence that such strategies may not succeed, saying that President Ruto is politically astute and difficult to outmaneuver.

Meanwhile, internal dynamics within ODM have continued to attract attention, especially following the death of former party leader Raila Odinga. The party has since experienced shifts in leadership and direction, with emerging factions and differing political alignments.

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has been endorsed as the new party leader, tasked with guiding ODM through its next phase and managing its political engagements. 

However, reports indicate that not all members are aligned with the new leadership structure, with Sifuna reportedly expressing reservations about serving under the current arrangement.

Alai’s remarks have added to the ongoing debate about unity and direction within ODM as the party prepares for future political contests, including the 2027 general elections.

1 comment:

  1. Kenya is the country of dirty politics; we eat and drink politics 24 hours a day. Had we put this energy in a meaningful engagement, today we would be very far.

    ReplyDelete

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