A major change has taken place inside the Orange Democratic Movement following a decision made by its top leadership in Mombasa. The party’s National Executive Committee met on Wednesday and agreed to remove Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary General with immediate effect.
In a statement released after the meeting, the committee said the decision came after careful discussions about his conduct while in office.
The NEC noted that the move was necessary to protect the values and discipline of the party. It stressed that ODM must always be guided by its constitution, the rule of law, and decisions made collectively by its official organs.
The party leadership expressed concern about what it described as growing indiscipline, especially among senior members.
According to the NEC, such behavior threatens unity and weakens the party’s ability to function properly. Members were reminded that holding a high position in the party also comes with responsibility and the need to respect internal rules and structures.
The statement made it clear that no individual is above the party’s constitution.
The NEC said it expects all leaders to work together in an orderly and respectful way to strengthen ODM and maintain public trust. The committee also warned that similar action could be taken against any other official found to be acting against party principles.
Following Sifuna’s removal, the party announced that one of the Deputy Secretary Generals, Catherine Omanyo, will take over the role in an acting capacity. She will serve as Secretary General until a new substantive office holder is chosen through the party’s official processes.
Party insiders say the decision is likely to spark debate within ODM, especially among supporters who viewed Sifuna as a strong and vocal leader.
However, the NEC insisted that the action was not personal but aimed at restoring order and discipline in the party.
The leadership further called on members to remain calm and focused on party goals. It urged them to respect the decision and continue working together as preparations for future political activities continue.
This development marks a turning point for ODM’s internal leadership and signals that the party intends to enforce its rules more firmly going forward.
