Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has openly challenged his removal as Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), asserting that he remains the party’s validly elected official.
The statement came a day after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) resolved to relieve him of his duties, a decision Sifuna described as illegal and procedurally flawed.
Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi on February 12, Sifuna criticised the process that led to his ouster, arguing that he was not given an opportunity to defend himself.
“I was not given a chance to defend myself,” he said, adding that the NEC’s action violated party procedures and undermined the democratic principles of ODM.
Despite the controversy, Sifuna affirmed his continued loyalty to the party and its founding ideals, vowing to defend ODM and its leadership.
“Whatever actions I take, I will do so knowing that I have never let down my leader, Raila. We shall fight for ODM; surrender is not an option for us. I remain a loyal member and the duly elected Secretary General of ODM,” he said.
Sifuna also directly addressed allegations of misconduct that have surfaced following his removal. He described the accusations as defamatory and challenged governors and other leaders who levelled claims against him to provide evidence.
“This is a coordinated war against me. You people know me and my work. Those governors making those allegations, we will meet them in court because it is very defamatory. If I have ever extorted you, bring the evidence for Kenyans to see,” he stated.
He further insisted that the NEC’s decision does not nullify his position. “I am still the SG of ODM. We will go to that NDC. We are still members of NDC; these are delegates of ODM.
No one can kick us out of the party,” Sifuna said, signalling his intention to maintain his role in upcoming party structures.
The Senator also defended his right to express personal opinions, responding to claims that he had confused party positions with his own statements. “Those who have made accusations against me should come and explain how I confused party position with my own opinion. I do not think it is correct to say that I do not have a right to a personal opinion. Raila told them that everyone in ODM, irrespective of the position, has a right to speak their mind,” he explained.
Sifuna’s press briefing attracted prominent party figures who came to show solidarity. EALA MP Winnie Odinga, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Siaya Governor James Orengo were present, highlighting the continued support Sifuna enjoys within sections of the party.
Their presence underscores that internal divisions within ODM are not universally accepted and that the debate over his position may continue in both political and legal arenas.
Political analysts suggest that Sifuna’s refusal to accept the NEC’s decision could set the stage for legal challenges and a wider contest over party control.
The case also raises broader questions about the authority of party organs versus the rights of elected office bearers within political parties in Kenya.
As ODM prepares for future conventions and electoral contests, the situation remains tense, with Sifuna pledging to defend the party’s integrity and uphold his role.
His insistence on remaining Secretary-General indicates that the party may face an internal showdown, with implications for leadership, loyalty, and governance.
