Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna is fighting back legally and politically against the National Executive Committee (NEC)'s decision to strip him of his position. The party accuses him of breaching discipline, including criticizing the ODM-UDA agreement and joining activities without permission. He has until April 8 to respond in writing and April 10 to appear before a panel.
Tensions between ODM and Sifuna have escalated after the NEC ordered him to answer discipline breach charges. In an April 2026 letter from National Chair Gladys Wanga, Sifuna is linked to opposing party decisions, issuing contradictory public statements, and missing key meetings.
At the core are his claims that ODM-UDA cooperation is "dead", and his involvement in the "Linda Mwananchi" initiative without permission. The party says these actions undermine unity and institutional structures. He must reply in writing by April 8 and appear before the disciplinary panel on April 10.
As a lawyer, Sifuna through his advocate Isaac Okero has condemned the decision using Article 88 of the ODM constitution. He initially approached the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal, but was directed to use internal processes. This delays any removal from office.
Analysts like Rachael Omollo say the process could portray Sifuna as blind in ODM's internal conflicts. Oburu Oginga has stressed unity, while Profesa Makau Mutua dubbed Sifuna a "walking dead man". The dispute affects preparations for the 2027 elections.
