Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has strongly dismissed accusations by a section of ODM leaders that he is meddling in the party’s internal politics ahead of the 2027 general election. Speaking during the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, who died earlier this month in a road accident, Uhuru said that although he is a retired president, he should not be provoked or disrespected.
“Mimi ni mstaafu, lakini kusema mstaafu sio kusema uniingize kidole kwa macho. Pia mimi nitakuingiza kwa sababu hatuogopi,” he said.
He further urged political leaders to build their own parties, develop clear policies, and engage directly with citizens rather than blaming others for internal divisions.
“Toa hiyo fikira mbovu. Nenda zungumza na wananchi, unda na usimamishe chama chako. Kuwa na sera zako kama mwanaume kama Cyrus Jirongo,” he added.
Uhuru rejected claims that he is secretly funding or influencing ODM politics, insisting he respects the party and has no intention of destabilising it. He said leaders should prioritise issue-based politics instead of making unfounded allegations against him.
The accusations against Uhuru were made by senior ODM figures including Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, who alleged that the former president was using internal actors to divide the party and influence its political direction ahead of the 2027 polls.
Some leaders also suggested that certain ODM members may be aligned to Uhuru’s political interests.
Edwin Sifuna Responds
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna later apologised to Uhuru Kenyatta for the harsh remarks directed at him by some party leaders. He acknowledged Uhuru’s historical political support for Raila Odinga and urged ODM members to avoid unnecessary personal attacks.
Context
Cyrus Jirongo, whose burial provided the platform for the remarks, was a former MP for Lugari Constituency and a long-time figure in Kenyan politics.
The ongoing exchange highlights growing political tension ahead of the 2027 general election, with differing views inside ODM on the extent of Uhuru’s influence in national politics despite his retirement.