Junet Mohamed has issued a sharp warning to President William Ruto and his United Democratic Alliance party. If they fail to show respect on Sunday, the situation could turn tense in Nakuru, where ODM supporters plan to guard the ground and chant WANTAM alongside their allies.
The outspoken ODM leader made the remarks while addressing party matters and ongoing friction with the ruling side. He spoke in a mix of English and Swahili that left little room for doubt about where he stands.
“Kama Ruto na UDA yake hawatatuheshimu Sunday, watatuona Nakuru tukilinda ground na tukiimba WANTAM na wenzetu,” MP Junet Mohamed said. In plain terms he meant that any lack of respect would bring ODM forces out in force to protect their space and rally together with their signature chant.
Junet did not stop there. He turned his attention to internal party business and made it clear that Edwin Sifuna remains the secretary general of ODM. “No one has kicked him out.”
“We still have Edwin Sifuna as secretary general of ODM. Hatukumfukuza.” He must just appear on the disciplinary committee,” he added. The message was firm. Sifuna stays in his post for now, but he has to face the committee and answer whatever questions party leaders have for him.
This double-barreled statement comes at a time when political temperatures in Kenya stay high. Ruto leads the country through UDA, while ODM under Oburu Odinga keeps up its strong opposition voice.
The part about Edwin Sifuna points to some housekeeping inside ODM. Party insiders have whispered about differences of opinion lately. Yet Junet insisted the leadership still backs Sifuna in his role.
The call for him to appear before the disciplinary committee suggests the party wants to sort things out properly rather than let rumours grow. It is the kind of internal step that keeps organisations steady even when outsiders try to stir trouble.
Junet Mohamed has seen plenty of political seasons. He knows how quickly a simple gathering can become a headline if respect is missing. His warning seems aimed at reminding UDA that ODM expects fair treatment when events unfold.
At the same time he sends a message to his own members that discipline matters. They must handle their affairs cleanly while standing firm against outside pressure.
Kenya has come through many election cycles where leaders trade strong words. This latest exchange fits the pattern, but it also highlights something deeper. Political parties rely on their grassroots supporters who show up rain or shine.
