ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has until April 8 to respond to questions on his conduct and appear before the party's disciplinary committee on April 10. This test could build or break his political career. Analysts say he faces tough choices.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, also Nairobi Senator, faces a major political test. The party sent a letter with questions on his conduct, giving him until April 8 to respond before a hearing on April 10.
This follows a Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) ruling that supported him, stating ODM did not exhaust all resolution methods before attempting to dismiss him. At last month's National Delegates Conference (NDC), ODM leader Dr Oburu Oginga declared no tolerance for internal opponents and vowed to enforce discipline.
Analysts offered varied views. MP Ngunjiri Wambugu advised him to fight for his position in ODM: “Namshauri apiganie nafasi yake ndani ya chama kwa sababu hata asipopata kila kitu, atafanikiwa kupata kitu.” Senator Godfrey Osotsi said he has no chance to save his role and accused him of working with President Ruto.
Sifuna could stay in ODM to oppose President William Ruto's administration, form a new party, or join the opposition coalition. In an NTV interview, he stated: “Ningependa kuwahakikishia wote wanaoamini kwamba nchi yetu haiwezi kustahimili muhula mwingine wa Ruto.” Rumors swirl of a potential new party with leaders like James Orengo and Babu Owino.