Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Oginga has defended the party’s disciplinary action against Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, clarifying that the move was not intended to expel him from the party.
Speaking during a rally in Makupa, Mombasa, on Sunday, Oburu emphasized that ODM members are expected to adhere strictly to party rules, warning that indiscipline would attract consequences.
“If you don’t follow the rules of the party, you keep out of the party, but if you follow the rules, you will be part and parcel of us,” he said.
Sifuna Asked to Step Aside, Not Expelled
Oburu maintained that Sifuna remains a member of the Orange Democratic Movement despite being asked to step aside from his role.
“We have our Secretary General, Catherine Omanyo, but the other SG, Edwin Sifuna—the party decided that he step aside for a while because of indiscipline. However, we have not expelled him,” Oburu stated.
He reiterated that the party would not reverse its disciplinary decision, arguing that enforcing rules is essential for maintaining unity within ODM ranks.
‘No One Is Bigger Than the Party’
The ODM leader cautioned against personality-driven politics, insisting that no individual is indispensable in the Orange party.
“We are not going to go back because there must be some example of discipline. Someone must feel some little pain for being indisciplined for the party to be united,” he said.
“The party cannot run based on fear. There is no one who is indispensable, including me. When I’m undisciplined, I must be removed. No one is bigger than the party.”
Oburu emphasized that ODM is governed by rules agreed upon by its members, warning that failure to observe them could weaken the party’s structure and unity.
The remarks come amid growing debate within ODM over leadership direction and internal discipline, placing the party’s cohesion under public scrutiny.
