ODM Ousts Sifuna as Secretary General After Fresh NEC Vote

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has removed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary General following a resolution passed by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) during a meeting at Chungwa House on Monday.

The decision was made at a NEC meeting chaired by ODM National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and attended by senior party officials, including party leader Oburu Odinga. Members considered findings from the Internal Disputes Resolution Committee (IDRC), which had investigated complaints against Sifuna in his role as Secretary General. 

Acting Secretary General Catherine Omanyo said the NEC unanimously adopted the committee’s recommendations, bringing Sifuna’s tenure in the position to an end. The move follows a recent ruling by the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal, which found that ODM had not provided Sifuna with a fair hearing during an earlier attempt to remove him from office. 

Although the tribunal temporarily reinstated him, it also stated that the party could begin fresh disciplinary proceedings if they complied with constitutional and procedural requirements. ODM leaders said the latest process was conducted in line with the tribunal’s guidance. 

They maintained that Sifuna had been given several opportunities to respond to the allegations but chose to participate through legal representatives rather than appear before the committee in person. The NEC argued that this approach weakened the effectiveness of the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms and supported the case for his removal.

In explaining its decision, the party referred to the tribunal’s earlier observation that no party official should be above internal rules and procedures. ODM said the ruling underscored the importance of discipline and accountability within political organisations.

The dispute reflects wider divisions within ODM over its relationship with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration. The cooperation agreement signed in March 2025 has generated differing views within the party, with Sifuna emerging as a prominent critic of the arrangement.