Go easy on Ruto govt criticism, ODM chief Raila tells Sifuna
Raila reassured ODM members who joined the government that the party would provide full support to help them carry out their duties.
ODM leader Raila Odinga has urged the party’s Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, to soften his criticism of President William Ruto’s administration.
Speaking at the funeral of the late Kasipul MP Charles Were in Oyugis, Homa Bay County, Raila reassured ODM members who joined the government that the party would provide full support to help them carry out their duties.
"Sifuna, sometimes you need to ease up on the criticism," Raila said.
He clarified that ODM has a formal agreement with Kenya Kwanza, which is outlined in a 10-point agenda that the party intends to see fully implemented.
Raila encouraged ODM members to remain united and work together towards strengthening the party.
While acknowledging that disagreements may arise on certain issues, he emphasized that a party must take a clear stand on key matters.
He also expressed that the party's success would be furthered if members supported the four ODM Cabinet Secretaries in their roles.
Raila Odinga emphasized that the Secretary General is the official spokesperson of the party, and when Sifuna speaks, it represents the party’s position.
However, he advised that sometimes the criticism may need to be softened, adding, "Sifuna, sometimes do not be too harsh."
Raila’s comments followed Treasury CS John Mbadi’s call for support in his role within the government, alongside other ODM leaders in government, including Hassan Joho (Mining), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), and Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives).
Mbadi, the longest-serving ODM chairman, explained his commitment to transforming the economy, noting, "I found it in bad shape."
He also highlighted the importance of showing Kenyans that if Raila had become president, these leaders would have been part of his government and would have worked towards the country's development.
Mbadi further stated, "My brother Sifuna, I am a member of your party, and I don’t belong to any other. If I fail, there’s no way you can convince anyone in 2027 that ODM can run a government."
Sifuna has been notably critical of the broad-based government in recent times.
