Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has declared that he remains the Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), dismissing a decision by a section of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) that purported to remove him from office.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, a day after the NEC meeting in Mombasa, Sifuna described the move as unlawful and procedurally flawed.
“I have taken note of the announcement made by a section of the ODM NEC in Mombasa yesterday, Wednesday, February 11, 2026, purporting to remove me from the position of Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement,” he said.
Sifuna challenged the legitimacy of the decision, terming it a violation of both the party constitution and principles of natural justice.
“Let me state, without fear of contradiction, that this action is illegal, unprocedural, and a blatant violation of the ODM Constitution, as well as the principles of natural justice,” he said.
He maintained that he had not been notified of any complaints or disciplinary proceedings that would justify his removal.
“At no time have I been informed of any allegations against me, be they of indiscipline, insubordination or incompetence in the execution of my duties as SG,” Sifuna stated. “Neither have I been invited to respond to any complaints in and out of the party, on any matter that would constitute grounds for removal.”
He added that no lawful party organ had summoned him for a hearing prior to the announcement.
The senator suggested that his stance on internal party matters may have contributed to the dispute, particularly his opposition to any plans within the party to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid.
“Indeed, as far as internal differences in opinion go, my only ‘crime’ is that I oppose any plans and schemes within the party to support President William Ruto’s re-election,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Sifuna noted that he is the longest-serving ODM Secretary-General.
“This month marks the beginning of my ninth year as SG of ODM, the longest serving individual in that position,” he said.
He also paid tribute to the party’s late leader Raila Odinga, saying his leadership had shaped his political journey.
“To serve that long at the feet of the enigmatic Raila Odinga needed one to summon all reservoirs of wisdom from all possible sources,” Sifuna said, adding that he remained committed to the ideals he associates with the former party leader.
The dispute sets the stage for a potential legal and political battle within the ODM leadership.
