Revealed: Why Sifuna Missed Crucial ODM Meeting Chaired By Oburu Odinga

The Orange Democratic Party (ODM) leader, Honorable Oburu Odinga, on Monday January 12, 2026, chaired a crucial party Central Committee meeting in Kilifi County within the coastal region.

The high-level meeting brought together senior party officials and was convened to deliberate on the future of ODM in the post-Raila Odinga era, as well as the party’s position within the broad-based government arrangement.

However, the meeting sparked widespread public debate after two key figures were conspicuously absent.

ODM Secretary General Honorable Edwin Sifuna and Deputy Party Leader Honorable Godfrey Osotsi did not attend, prompting questions and speculation among party supporters and political observers across the country.

Addressing the issue, Oburu Odinga moved to clarify the circumstances surrounding their absence, dismissing claims of internal wrangles or defiance within the party.

According to Oburu, both Sifuna and Osotsi formally communicated their inability to attend the meeting and sent apologies in advance.

Oburu revealed that Honorable Godfrey Osotsi is currently in South Africa on official commitments. Despite making efforts to return to Kenya in time for the meeting, Osotsi reportedly missed his flight, making it impossible for him to attend the Kilifi gathering.

On the other hand, Oburu explained that Honorable Edwin Sifuna was also engaged in other unavoidable duties that prevented his physical presence at the meeting.

He emphasized that Sifuna remains fully committed to ODM’s agenda and was kept informed on the deliberations and resolutions reached during the session.

The ODM leader reassured party members that the absence of the two leaders should not be interpreted as a sign of division within the party.

He stressed that ODM remains united and focused on restructuring its leadership and strategy to remain politically relevant ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The Kilifi meeting is seen as a significant step in shaping ODM’s future direction, with party leaders agreeing on the need for unity, inclusivity, and strategic realignment as the party navigates a new political chapter following Raila Odinga’s exit from active frontline politics.