Power Struggle in ODM: Why Sifuna’s Position Has Sparked a Party Storm

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A growing unease is taking shape within one of Kenya’s major political outfits, as internal debates over leadership, procedure and the future direction of the party spill into the public arena.

What began as murmurs in party meetings has now evolved into open statements, reflecting deeper questions about authority, unity and adherence to party rules.
A section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders has now called for the immediate convening of a National Delegates Congress (NDC), insisting that any major decisions affecting the party’s top offices must be sanctioned by delegates.

The leaders have particularly warned against what they describe as attempts to edge out Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary General through informal or irregular processes.

The leaders argued that the ODM constitution is clear on how senior officials can be removed or replaced, stressing that the NDC remains the party’s highest decision making organ.

They cautioned that bypassing this structure would not only be unconstitutional but could also expose the party to unnecessary internal conflict at a time when unity is critical.

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Sifuna, who has served as Secretary General since 2021, has in recent months emerged as a vocal figure on national governance issues, occasionally taking positions that have sparked debate both within and outside ODM.

His outspoken style, while earning praise from some quarters for defending democratic values, has also reportedly unsettled sections of the party leadership, fueling speculation about his political future.

The ODM leaders backing Sifuna maintained that differing opinions within the party should not be used as justification for removal from office.

They emphasized that internal democracy and tolerance of diverse views have long been pillars of the party’s identity, warning that undermining these principles could erode public trust.

Calls for the NDC have also been framed as an opportunity to address broader concerns within the party, including preparations for the 2027 General Election, coalition strategies, and the welfare of grassroots supporters.

According to the leaders, an NDC would provide a legitimate platform for delegates to debate contentious issues openly and chart a collective path forward.

While the party’s top leadership has yet to issue an official response, the unfolding developments highlight growing tensions within ODM as it navigates internal power dynamics and external political pressures.