By Dickson Mwiti
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna has called on young Kenyans to unite and speak out about the state of the country, saying the nation “is not okay” and needs collective action to improve governance.
Speaking in Meru County during a visit to Mzee Zablon Mathenge, whom he described as a longtime friend of the late Raila Odinga, Sifuna urged Kenyans and especially the youth not to fear expressing their views.
“We have decided as young Kenyans that our country is not okay and there is therefore need for us to save it. This change will only come if we all come together and speak in one voice,” said Sifuna.
He said Kenyans should not be intimidated into silence, alleging that people who openly express their opinions risk harassment or abduction.
According to Sifuna, the climate of fear has affected both young and elderly citizens.
He also claimed that influential interests were attempting to take over private properties and institutions, citing what he described as the arrest of an elderly board member of The Nairobi Hospital.
He linked the incident to an alleged effort by unnamed individuals to control the hospital’s leadership.
Sifuna further referenced a dispute involving former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju, saying similar intrigues were being used to target his property.
During the visit, Sifuna also defended allies of the late Odinga, saying he would continue supporting them amid what he described as attempts to sideline them.
“They waited for Baba to die so they can start expelling his friends, but as Secretary-General, I have the register of all Baba’s friends and I will not abandon them,” he said.
The Nairobi City County Senator maintained that Kenya could still change if citizens remain united and committed to defending their rights.
Edited by John Majau
