The COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has advised ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna to mature up and respect party leaders.
Speaking in Kakamega on Tuesday, Atwoli said discipline and respect are key to keeping peace in political parties.
He warned that careless talk by young leaders could weaken ODM at a time the party needs unity.
Atwoli said he has no problem with Sifuna but reminded him that politics requires patience and understanding. He said ODM members must handle their differences quietly and with wisdom if the party wants to remain strong ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Sifuna is a bright young man, but he must mature up and learn from those who have walked the journey longer. You don’t build a party by talking carelessly about your seniors. Politics needs respect, organisation, and teamwork,” Atwoli said.
“If you disagree with your party leader, you solve it inside the house. You don’t take family matters to the streets. ODM is a big party. We must protect its unity for the sake of future generations.”
Atwoli says ODM must stay united ahead of 2027
Atwoli asked leaders close to Raila Odinga not to fight each other in public. He said division will only make the party look weak before Kenyans.
ODM Party SG Edwin Sifuna. Photo: Edwin Sifuna | FacebookThe veteran trade unionist said leaders must protect Raila’s legacy by keeping peace within the party.
He also urged younger politicians to seek guidance from older ones who have served for years.
Atwoli said ODM can only win future elections if all its members work together and focus on serving Kenyans instead of fighting for positions.
“ODM belongs to all of us. Let us work together, respect each other, and make sure the party remains strong even after Raila. That is how we honour him,” he said.
Sifuna yet to respond to Atwoli’s remarks
By Wednesday afternoon, Sifuna had not commented on Atwoli’s advice. Party insiders said tension between the two started after recent disagreements over the direction of ODM following Raila’s continued silence on national politics.
Atwoli’s latest remarks come amid growing talk of internal wrangles and power struggles within the party. Observers say how ODM handles these disputes will determine its strength and future as one of Kenya’s oldest political movements.
