Oburu Odinga Clarifies Edwin Sifuna’s Position in ODM Amid Rising Party Tensions
Oburu Odinga, a senior leader in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has moved to clear the air over reports suggesting that the party’s secretary general, Edwin Sifuna, had been expelled from the party.
Speaking during a church service at Shalom Miracle Church in Mombasa on Sunday, February 15, Oburu explained that Sifuna was not removed from ODM membership but was only relieved of his duties as secretary general following internal disciplinary action.
According to Oburu, the decision taken by the party leadership was meant to address issues of discipline within ODM rather than to punish or push Sifuna out of the party entirely.
He emphasized that Sifuna remains a member of ODM and continues to participate in party affairs, but the leadership felt it was necessary to take action to maintain order and unity within the organization.
He noted that discipline is an important pillar for any political party and that members, regardless of their rank or influence, must follow agreed party positions and procedures.
Oburu also reaffirmed the appointment of Catherine Omanyo as the interim secretary general, stating that the party had already settled on her leadership in the role.
He explained that while Sifuna is still recognized as secretary general in court proceedings, Omanyo remains the official secretary general recognized by the party leadership.
Oburu maintained that the party would not reverse its decision, insisting that ODM must demonstrate consistency when enforcing its rules.
He further stated that disciplinary measures are sometimes necessary to send a message that no individual is above the party. According to him, allowing indiscipline to go unchecked would weaken the party’s structure and create unnecessary divisions.
Oburu added that even senior leaders, including himself, could face disciplinary action if they went against party resolutions, stressing that ODM operates under a constitution that guides the conduct of all members.
The clarification comes at a time when tensions within ODM have continued to grow following the National Executive Committee’s resolution to remove Sifuna from the secretary general position.
After his removal, Sifuna moved to court to challenge the decision, and the High Court of Kenya issued temporary orders stopping the party from officially gazetting his ouster until the matter is fully heard and determined.
Despite the ongoing dispute, Oburu insisted that the party remains united and warned against what he described as external attempts to create divisions within ODM. He expressed confidence that internal disagreements would eventually be resolved through party structures and legal processes.
Meanwhile, as Oburu and other ODM officials attended events in Mombasa, a separate faction aligned to Sifuna, together with Babu Owino, held activities in Kitengela as part of their Linda Wananchi tour.
The parallel engagements highlighted the ongoing differences within the party, even as leaders continue to call for unity and calm among members and supporters.
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