Senator Edwin Sifuna outlined the motivations behind his strong support for the 'Wantam movement' seeking to make President William ...
- Senator Edwin Sifuna outlined the motivations behind his strong support for the 'Wantam movement' seeking to make President William Ruto a one-term president.
- He explained the reason for missing the State of the Nation address and the previous meetings that the president participated in.
- MP Caleb Amisi criticized the Ruto administration and provided explanations for why Kenya may not resemble Singapore despite Ruto's initiatives.
Nancy Odindo, a journalist with Articlepedia Today.co.ke, brings more than four years of expertise in reporting on Kenyan politics, news, and features across digital and print platforms.
Nairobi senator and ODM's secretary general, Edwin Sifuna, has once again stated his opposition to President William Ruto's government, criticizing him for moving away from the grassroots approach that helped him gain prominence.
Sifuna asserted that the president is now proposing new reasons for seeking re-election in 2027, while neglecting critical national matters.
Why Sifuna is against Ruto's attempt for a second term
On Saturday, November 22, during the funeral of his uncle Roy Bulinya in Siaka Village, Kanduyi, Sifuna criticized Ruto for overlooking issues in the education and health sectors.
He mentioned ongoing issues including the challenges faced by junior secondary school teachers, the KSh 7 billion funding provided to private universities for government-sponsored students, and the recent strike by lecturers.
If you hold the position of president and require guidance on what to do, then step down and allow us to choose someone who comprehends the responsibilities of the role. Kenyans are enduring hardship.
That is why I have chosen for him to serve just one term. Those who shout 'Tutam'—we honor you and also expect the same respect. There's no way you rise early only to be met with the complaints of teachers, doctors, and citizens throughout the nation. This individual needs to return home," Sifuna stated.
The senator also addressed his absence from the State of the Nation speech and other presidential gatherings, stating that he steers clear of events where differing opinions are not allowed.
"We are being forced to take on tough assignments, and that's not the way it should be. I don't always go to his meetings because the law states that when the president is speaking, we must all stay quiet, even if he is lying. If you cough, you'll hear 'Sifuna out for six months.' It's better for me to stay away, and then come back after the meetings to keep fighting for you," he said.
Did Amisi condemn Ruto's administration?
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi shared Sifuna's views, blaming Ruto for presenting new manifestos in parliament while not fulfilling previous commitments.
He rejected Ruto's goal of making Kenya similar to Singapore, claiming the president has a flawed understanding of the nation's history.
"Singapore has rejected corruption, maintains a robust healthcare system, and does not experience strikes by lecturers. Ruto was part of earlier governments but never transformed Kenya into something similar to Singapore. He is not the most suitable leader for the country," Amisi stated.
Amisi further stated that Sifuna must take on a national leadership role to promote changes and advancements.
"The upcoming election will see Gen Z returning us to our homes. Before that occurs, let us send these individuals back. Allow Sifuna to lead this country and fight for the nation," he implored.
Moreover, he contended that all officials who were part of the late former president Daniel Moi's administration should step down from their current positions.
