Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna has issued a strong warning that he will quit the party if it decides to back President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

Speaking on Sunday during a function in Sabaoti, Trans Nzoia County, Sifuna asserted that political allegiance must not come at the cost of personal principles, especially on weighty decisions such as endorsing a presidential candidate.

“I want to make it clear to ODM supporters that my position is unchanged,” said Sifuna. “Even Raila himself has repeatedly said that ODM is a democratic party where every member has the right to express their views. But some goons now claim that as secretary-general, I must toe the party line at all times.”

Sifuna, who also serves as the Nairobi Senator, appeared to be responding to criticism that has painted him as a party dissenter for consistently criticizing the Kenya Kwanza administration, even as some top ODM leaders warm up to President Ruto under a so-called ‘broad-based’ government framework.

The framework, which brought several opposition figures into government, has left the party in a state of internal uncertainty, with supporters questioning the direction ODM is headed. Sifuna has previously faulted the party for losing its ideological identity and failing to speak in unison.

On Sunday, he reiterated that although he is ready to fulfill his role as the party’s mouthpiece even reading statements that are not in his favour he will not go as far as endorsing Ruto.

“I’ll read any ODM statement, even if it criticizes me,” he said. “But the moment the party chooses to back Ruto in 2027, I will not read that statement. That will be the end of my journey with ODM.”

He also dismissed comparisons between himself and Nyando MP Jared Okelo, who some claim is better suited for the role due to his eloquence. “If Okelo wants the job, let him take it especially if it involves supporting Ruto. I won’t do that,” he stated.

Sifuna further criticized the party's recent lack of ideological coherence, saying it has confused members and the public alike. He blamed the situation on ODM’s involvement in the 'broad-based' government, which he claims has diluted the party's opposition credentials.

Despite calls from some quarters for his resignation, ODM leader Raila Odinga has defended Sifuna, stating that while he speaks for the party in an official capacity, he is also entitled to his personal opinion.

The latest remarks underscore the internal tensions within ODM as it navigates its future role amid shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 polls.