Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Oginga has dismissed claims that Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was expelled from the party.
Speaking during a church service at Shalom Miracle Church in Makupa, Mombasa, on Sunday, February 15, Oburu clarified that Sifuna was only removed from the position of Secretary-General but remains an active member of ODM.
According to the party leader, the decision was a disciplinary measure meant to reinforce internal order rather than a complete removal from the party.
“Punished for Indiscipline,” Says Oburu
Oburu maintained that ODM’s constitution provides clear guidelines on discipline and that any official regardless of rank must adhere to party rules.
He emphasized that Sifuna’s removal from the Secretary-General role followed a resolution by the party’s National Executive Committee. However, he insisted the senator was not “chased away” from ODM.
“We have our Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo, and the other SG was asked to step aside due to indiscipline. But he remains a member of the party,” Oburu stated.
He further stressed that discipline is necessary to preserve unity and that no individual is bigger than the party structure including himself.
Catherine Omanyo Reaffirmed as Interim SG
Oburu reiterated support for Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo, who is currently serving as the interim Secretary-General.
He maintained that the party would not reverse its decision, even as the matter proceeds through the courts.
High Court Intervention
Following his removal, Sifuna moved to the High Court to challenge the decision. The court issued a conservatory order blocking the gazettement of his ouster pending the hearing and determination of his petition.
The legal battle has intensified divisions within ODM, with rival factions organizing parallel political activities across the country.
Rival Factions Take Different Paths
While Oburu and his allies attended engagements in Mombasa, Sifuna, alongside Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, continued their “Linda Wananchi” tour in Kitengela.
Siaya Governor James Orengo has also been linked to the faction backing Sifuna’s leadership stance, further highlighting the widening cracks within the party.
Despite the tensions, Oburu maintained that ODM remains united and accused unnamed external forces of attempting to destabilize the party.
Why This Matters for Kenya’s Political Landscape
The dispute over the Secretary-General position is more than an internal reshuffle. It reflects:
Succession politics within ODM
Broader debates on party discipline and internal democracy
Legal interpretation of party constitutions
The future direction of ODM ahead of the next general election
With ODM historically playing a central role in Kenya’s opposition politics, the outcome of this standoff could significantly shape alliances and political realignments in 2026.
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