Orwoba Claims Sifuna’s Government Criticism Stems from Missing Interior CS Post

NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has alleged that Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s vocal criticism of President William Ruto’s administration is motivated by disappointment over not being appointed Cabinet Secretary for Interior.

Orwoba made the claims during an appearance on the Iko Nini podcast, suggesting that Sifuna was considered for the key position during negotiations for Kenya’s broad-based government but was ultimately passed over.

“Sifuna is bitter with President Ruto and the broad-based government because he wanted to be a Cabinet Secretary,” Orwoba stated.

Senator Orwoba during her interview hosted by Mwafrika.

She specifically pointed to the Interior CS role as the source of his alleged frustration.

Sifuna, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General and a prominent critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, has previously dismissed speculation about joining Ruto’s government.

In May 2025, he categorically ruled out accepting any cabinet position, stating: “Even at the magnanimity of President William Ruto, I would not accept any office to be part of the current regime.”

Orwoba’s claims have drawn varied responses on social media, with some questioning their validity.

One user directly challenged Sifuna, asking whether the remarks constituted defamation, referencing Orwoba’s recent legal troubles.

The comments come as Orwoba faces her own difficulties.

On July 15, 2025, the Milimani Commercial Court ordered her to pay Ksh 10.5 million in damages to Senate Clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye for defamatory social media posts accusing him of sexual harassment.

The court ruled that her allegations were malicious and lacked evidence. Orwoba has vowed to appeal the judgment.

Additionally, Orwoba was expelled from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in May 2025 for alleged disloyalty, including her association with former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i. This led to her Senate seat being declared vacant.

Despite her expulsion, Orwoba remains a polarizing figure known for her advocacy on gender issues and vocal critiques of government policies.

Sifuna has not publicly responded to Orwoba’s claims. Political analysts suggest the allegations could further strain relations between ODM and the Kenya Kwanza government as opposition leaders navigate their roles in the evolving political landscape.

The Interior CS position, critical for national security and coordination, remains a focal point of political intrigue, with Orwoba’s comments adding to ongoing speculation about cabinet appointments and opposition dynamics.