Senator Godfrey Osotsi, the Deputy Party Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement, expressed deep nostalgia for Raila Odinga following recent sharp remarks by Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed directed at Edwin Sifuna.
In a post on February 28, 2026, Osotsi described the comments as uncalled for and lamented that such statements would never have occurred while Raila Odinga, affectionately known as Baba, was alive. He declared that the party now feels like orphans without its foundational leader and added simply, "I miss Baba."
The controversy stems from Junet Mohamed's public jab at Sifuna, the former ODM Secretary-General and Nairobi Senator.
In remarks shared widely on February 27, 2026, Junet questioned Sifuna's credentials, stating that despite Sifuna claiming to be a lawyer, he had never been seen in court defending anyone.
The comment appeared amid ongoing internal party tensions within ODM, including disputes over leadership roles, alleged mismanagement of past campaign funds, and differing views on political alliances.
Sifuna has faced challenges in his position, including attempts to remove him as Secretary-General, which led to legal interventions at the Political Parties Tribunal.
These developments have highlighted divisions, with accusations flying between key figures like Sifuna and Junet over accountability and loyalty to the party's direction.
Osotsi's response reflects a broader sentiment among some ODM supporters who feel the absence of Raila Odinga's unifying presence has allowed personal attacks and factionalism to rise.
Raila, who passed away before 2026, was widely seen as the figure who kept the opposition coalition cohesive through difficult times. His death has left a leadership vacuum, contributing to public expressions of grief and frustration from allies like Osotsi.
The exchange underscores the fragile state of ODM's internal dynamics as the party navigates post-Raila realities and prepares for future political battles.
Osotsi's post received modest engagement but captured attention for its emotional appeal to Raila's legacy amid the latest round of public spats.
