The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has strongly condemned what it calls “false narratives” being spread by Kenyan media outlets about supposed divisions within the party over leadership succession.
In a forceful statement, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna accused the media of engaging in a “well-woven plot to incite division” by publishing “fake news” stories. He dismissed reports speculating about factional fights and succession politics as “non-existent vacancies.”
“The ODM party has remained the most consequential political organization in multiparty Kenya,” Sifuna declared. “This is no mean feat but has been achieved by a strong leadership foundation, vibrant party structures, credible values, and a strong party membership base.”
The statement comes days after party leader Raila Odinga announced his intention to contest the chairmanship of the African Union Commission. While acknowledging the announcement had prompted much media speculation, Sifuna insisted Odinga had made “no pronouncements regarding his local political future” and remained ODM’s leader.
“If a time ever comes for transitions within the party’s leadership, we will make it public,” Sifuna said. He urged ODM members “not to fall for the narratives currently being churned by the media.”
Hitting out at the media, Sifuna accused outlets of intentionally creating “the perception of factional fights” and falling “over themselves” to report on divisions that do not exist. “We understand politics sells, especially anything revolving around the Rt Hon Odinga, but we urge that the media takes only the truth to the Market,” he stated.
“As a publicly funded institution, ODM has always run an open door and kept the media abreast of all events and programs we conduct. Should the media require credible news from us, they just need to ask.”
Sifuna dismissed suggestions Odinga’s AU ambitions were linked to domestic Kenyan politics. “The biggest issue afflicting Kenyans today is the high cost of living and not party political succession,” he said.
