The Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Edwin Sifuna, has issued a stern warning to party leaders, urging them to exercise caution when making public statements that could harm the party’s reputation. His comments come after National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed and former ODM Deputy Party Leader Ali Hassan Joho made remarks that sparked public debate, causing divisions within the opposition ranks.
Junet Mohamed, while accompanying President William Ruto in Taita Taveta, made headlines on Monday by suggesting that public participation in development projects should be scrapped, claiming it often creates unnecessary bottlenecks in the government’s work. He argued that the government, which is elected to serve the people, should be free from such constraints. His exact words were, “Serikali inachaguliwa ndio ilete maendeleo kwa nchi…lakini kama serikali ikitaka kufanya kazi yake inawekewa vikwazo,” implying that public participation stands in the way of development.
The following day, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Devki Iron Processing Project, Junet further fueled controversy by aligning with the government’s agenda, particularly on the issue of affordable housing. “Mambo ya Affordable Housing, na mengi yalikuwa katika manifesto yetu na sisi kama upinzani tumesema kama mambo ilikuwa katika manifesto yetu, hakuna kitu ya kupinga,” he remarked, suggesting that the opposition has no objections to the government’s development initiatives.
These statements quickly sparked backlash from party members and supporters who accused Junet of betraying ODM’s principles. In response to the criticisms, Junet defended his comments, emphasizing his right to express his personal views. “Huwezi kufunga mdomo yangu. Jana nimeongea Taita Taveta na watu wananirukia, bwana mdomo ni yangu, siasa ni yangu,” he stated defiantly.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna swiftly moved to clarify the party’s stance on these matters. Sifuna stressed that Junet’s remarks were personal opinions and did not represent ODM’s official position. “When a leader like Junet makes a statement and says it’s his personal opinion, he must remember that his position in the party and Parliament makes his words easily perceived as ODM’s stance. While personal opinions are allowed, leaders must weigh their words carefully,” Sifuna stated.
Sifuna further emphasized the party’s commitment to public participation and the protection of citizens’ interests, reinforcing that ODM stands by democratic principles that advocate for inclusivity in governance. “What Junet said does not reflect ODM’s beliefs. We stand for public participation and the people’s interests. If he speaks, I will also speak to correct the record because my duty is to protect ODM’s identity,” Sifuna added.
Sifuna’s remarks also came in the wake of controversial statements made by Joho, who is now serving as the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. Joho had labeled Kenyans who criticize the government on social media as unpatriotic, warning that they might face consequences for their posts. This statement has drawn significant backlash, particularly from the online community, with many arguing that Joho’s comments were threatening and out of line.
In response, Sifuna condemned Joho’s comments, stating that even ODM leader Raila Odinga, who is often the target of online criticism, has never sought to silence his critics. “Raila Odinga has faced immense criticism online but has never once condemned critics. We need to respect freedom of speech,” he said, reiterating that lawmakers would soon summon Joho to explain his controversial remarks.
However, ODM’s Migori Senator Eddy Oketch defended Joho, pointing out that as a Cabinet Secretary, Joho is now aligned with the Kenya Kwanza government and must support its agenda. Oketch also backed Junet, suggesting that as an opposition leader, his remarks on public participation were legitimate.
Senator Oketch further urged all political leaders to avoid making statements that could provoke unrest, especially among the youth. He cautioned that arrogance and public displays of wealth could reignite tensions, calling for restraint in public conduct.
In a tense political climate, Sifuna’s call for restraint highlights the challenges ODM faces in maintaining unity and clarity in its messaging. While individual leaders are free to express personal opinions, their statements must align with the party’s broader principles, especially when representing an opposition party committed to safeguarding democratic values.
