ODM Removes Edwin Sifuna as Secretary General After NEC Decision

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has removed Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary General following a decision by its National Executive Council (NEC).

The decision was reached during a NEC meeting held on Wednesday, 11 February, and confirmed publicly on Tuesday. In a statement, the council said the party operates under constitutional principles and collective leadership. It stated that concerns had been raised about Sifuna’s conduct and that members unanimously resolved to remove him from office with immediate effect.

Catherine Omayo, the Busia Woman Representative and former Deputy Secretary General, has been appointed to oversee the party’s Secretariat as ODM prepares for its National Delegates Convention scheduled for 27 March. Sifuna’s removal follows several weeks of tension between the Nairobi Senator and sections of the party leadership. 

He and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Otsotsi did not attend the NEC meeting, a development that reflected the strained relations. ODM leader Senator Oburu Oginga had earlier indicated that disciplinary measures would be taken against leaders considered to be acting against the party’s collective position.

Sifuna, who has been critical of the Kenya Kwanza administration, had maintained that he would continue to express his views even where they differed from the party’s strategy. He recently launched the Linda Mwananchi tours, beginning in Busia County. Despite his removal, he has said the initiative will continue, with the next rally planned for Kitengela on Sunday, 15 February. 

Siaya Governor James Orengo and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino are expected to attend. During the same meeting, the NEC resolved to begin the formal process of withdrawing ODM from the Azimio la Umoja One coalition. Oburu Oginga has been assigned to lead coalition negotiations as the party repositions itself ahead of the 2027 General Election.