The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has removed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his post as party secretary general.
The decision was taken on Wednesday, February 11, at a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Mombasa, where senior party officials voted to relieve Sifuna of his duties with immediate effect, citing concerns over “indiscipline” and breaches of party conduct.
The move deepens a bitter schism within one of the country’s most influential political organisations.
In a statement read out after the meeting, the NEC said it had acted in accordance with the ODM constitution and relevant laws, stressing that collective decision-making by party organs remains fundamental to its governance.
As a result, Catherine Omanyo, the current Deputy Secretary General and Busia Woman Representative, has been appointed acting Secretary General until a permanent officeholder is elected.
The move follows a tumultuous period for ODM, which has been grappling with persistent internal divisions since the death of its long-time leader, Raila Odinga, in October 2025.
Wednesday’s meeting was only the second NEC gathering since that leadership transition.
Party fractures and Sifuna’s absence
Sifuna, a vocal legislator and prominent figure within ODM, did not attend the NEC session. He and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi sent apologies, with party officials citing other engagements.
The senator’s absence from the meeting – and his perceived estrangement from the party’s leadership – has fuelled speculation about deeper disagreements over strategy, particularly regarding negotiations with Kenya’s ruling coalition, Kenya Kwanza.
Some party members see Sifuna as aligned with a more independent direction, while others argue for stricter collective discipline.
Edwin Sifuna removed from position of ODM SG, replaced by Catherine Omanyo (Busia WR) in acting capacity. pic.twitter.com/ju182p05Dr
— Madoka Kibet, HSC (@MKMadoka_) February 11, 2026
Broader political implications
The abrupt removal of one of the party’s most senior figures comes as ODM prepares for the National Delegates Convention (NDC) scheduled for later this month in Nairobi.
The convention will address the party’s strategic direction ahead of the 2027 general election and could formalise additional changes emerging from the current leadership crisis.
Pundits say the public fallout could weaken ODM’s bargaining position with potential coalition partners, especially as rival parties seek to consolidate support ahead of the polls.
The party’s approach to alliances – including ongoing debates over cooperation with President William Ruto’s government – has been a flashpoint in recent months.
Sifuna’s future and party unity
Sifuna’s political future within ODM remains uncertain. Some party insiders suggest he may contest the decision through internal mechanisms or legal channels, while others predict he will retain support among grassroots supporters disenchanted by the NEC’s move.
In the immediate aftermath, ODM leaders have appealed for calm and unity, framing the decision as necessary for upholding the party constitution and preparing a cohesive front ahead of Kenya’s next electoral cycle.
READ ALSO: Why Raila Odinga’s ODM is Kenya’s Biggest Threat to Democracy
The developments mark one of the most significant internal challenges for ODM since its founding more than two decades ago and underscore broader tensions within Kenya’s opposition politics at a critical moment ahead of national elections.
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