Kimilili MP Didmus Baraza once again found himself at the center of controversy during a function attended by the Linda Mwananchi brigade led by Edwin Sifuna.
Baraza, who is a Ruto ally, used his speech to criticize Sifuna and his ally, Senator Godfrey Osotsi. He accused Osotsi of being a self-centered politician who allegedly uses political formations to secure positions for his family and close associates.
According to Baraza, Senator Osotsi abused his influence in the former Amani National Congress (ANC) party by ensuring that only family members and friends benefited from nominations to various positions.
“If there is one person I respect for scheming political positions, it is this Osotsi. He ran away with everything from ANC when he realized Mudavadi was no longer keen on running the party. Today he is with Sifuna not because he likes Sifuna, but because there is something he is scheming for,” Baraza claimed, drawing strong reactions from the crowd.
Baraza’s remarks have sparked debate over whether they were merely political criticism, hate or an attempt to undermine Sifuna’s growing influence within the opposition.
From one perspective, such attacks could be interpreted as a sign that Sifuna is emerging as an increasingly influential figure in opposition politics. Supporters argue that his rise has unsettled some leaders who may view him as a potential competitor for future leadership positions.
However, critics of this view maintain that political scrutiny is a normal part of public life and that disagreements among opposition leaders should not automatically be interpreted as efforts to block one individual’s political ambitions.
The exchanges between Baraza, Sifuna, and other opposition figures such as Mumias East MP Peter Salasya also highlight the broader challenge facing many politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Whether these public disagreements strengthen democratic debate or expose deeper divisions within the opposition remains a matter of political interpretation.
However, it remains a disturbing issue to see Sifuna being fought by his own brothers.