Naiobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has dismissed remarks by President William Ruto suggesting that only the late Raila Odinga would have been a credible challenger in the 2027 presidential race, saying ODM remains strong and ready to compete.
Speaking to party delegates in Mombasa on Saturday, November 1, 2025, the ODM Secretary General assured supporters that the movement is firm, organised, and prepared for the next election even without Raila.
Sifuna stressed that the party was built through unity and long-term structures, adding that those expecting ODM to weaken were misreading the situation.
He told members that confidence and preparation were still high ahead of the next polls.
"I have heard people going around claiming that it was only the late Raila who was able to challenge them in the forthcoming 2027 elections. The young lion is still a lion. They will be shocked," Sifuna noted.
The Nairobi Senator emphasised that ODM will present candidates for all elective positions in 2027 and remains confident in its ability to deliver victory.
He said the party has leaders capable of taking on the task, and that success does not depend on one figure.
"I know we will win if we front any candidate in the 2027 elections. Even if you decide to front me as a candidate, we will still win," the ODM Secretary General affirmed.
Sifuna also urged the government to focus on addressing challenges affecting citizens instead of concentrating on political statements about opponents. He said Kenyans expect leadership that responds to everyday issues and improves their welfare.
His remarks came two days after President Ruto, while addressing residents in Malava, Kakamega, stated that Raila was the only person capable of posing a challenge in 2027.
Ruto suggested that other opposition leaders had not demonstrated strength or a clear agenda.
"I want to challenge those people who are spreading hate and divisive politics to tell Kenyans their concrete plans for this country rather than mere rhetoric," Ruto commented.
Adding, "The only person who could have posed a challenge against me is Raila, but the rest are nothing to me; I will defeat them very early in the morning."
Ruto said slogans such as Wantam and Kasongo could not shape a winning campaign, arguing that progress and development are what voters care about most.
