A fresh dispute has emerged within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after youth wing member Kasmuel McCoure criticised Secretary General Edwin Sifuna over what he described as mixed messaging and poor judgment at a defining moment for the party.
McCoure issued the remarks in a statement posted on X, arguing that ODM requires coherence and restraint as it navigates a period of leadership realignment.
According to McCoure, the Secretary General has in recent weeks delivered public comments that appear to blur the line between personal opinion and official party policy.
He cited Sifuna’s decision to chant “Wantam,” which he said represents a political grouping whose philosophy contradicts ODM’s longstanding ideological positioning.
ODM has historically anchored itself on social democratic principles, and internal actors frequently emphasise consistency in messaging, especially during political transitions.
McCoure also revisited the party’s 20th anniversary event in Mombasa, where Sifuna oversaw the programme. He claimed that the proceedings were disrupted by decisions that, in his view, undermined the stature of Party Leader Dr. Oburu Oginga.
The youth leader stated that the atmosphere at the venue forced the party boss to abbreviate a major address that had been planned as a highlight of the celebrations.
In the statement, McCoure alleged that Sifuna worked with individuals who contributed to tension at the event, which he believes exposed the party to unnecessary criticism.
He argued that such actions divert attention from ODM’s organisational restructuring and preparations for upcoming national political cycles.
The party has been working to reposition itself across various regions ahead of future elections, with internal cohesion seen as a critical ingredient for electoral performance.
McCoure further said that young members of the party are committed to defending ODM’s institutional integrity.
He insisted that they would continue raising concerns when senior officials take actions they view as inconsistent with party values or the expectations of grassroots supporters.
“Sisi kama vijana tumekataa huo upuzi. Ukweli hatutaacha kusema,” he stated in the post, maintaining that the youth wing would remain vocal.