Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has publicly rejected his removal as Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), describing the action by a faction of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) as illegal and procedurally flawed.
The decision to oust Sifuna was announced on February 11, 2026, during an NEC meeting in Mombasa, where the committee appointed Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo as acting replacement. The move was attributed to concerns over party discipline and internal cohesion.
In a statement and press address on February 12, Sifuna, an advocate and longtime ally of ODM leader Raila Odinga, emphasized that the process violated the party’s constitution and the principles of natural justice. He noted that he had not been summoned or given an opportunity to defend himself.
“This action is illegal, unprocedural, and a blatant violation of the ODM Constitution,” Sifuna stated. He accused a section of the ODM NEC of orchestrating his ouster as the party’s Secretary-General.
Additionally, he said: “I was never informed of any allegations, nor given a chance to respond. My only ‘crime’ is opposing any party schemes to support President Ruto’s re-election, as I believe Kenya cannot afford another term of his divisive and incompetent leadership.”
Sifuna affirmed his continued loyalty to the party, declaring, “I remain a loyal member and the duly elected Secretary-General,” and pledged to pursue all available legal remedies to contest the decision. He further asserted that surrender was not an option, adding, “We will fight to the end.”
As the longest-serving Secretary-General, he confirmed his loyal service under Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga while defending the party’s constitution and ideals. “I will not betray his legacy and will challenge this illegality through all lawful means, including the courts,” he said.
“I urge party members to remain calm, steadfast, and committed to ODM’s principles of justice and democracy. I remain your loyal Secretary-General, dedicated to a fair Kenya.”
The senator’s response has sparked discussions among Kenyans, with some viewing the internal rift as a potential fracture within ODM, particularly amid the party’s alliances with President William Ruto’s broad-based government.
These developments highlight ongoing tensions within ODM as the party navigates its role in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
