Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was on Wednesday removed from his position as Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
The move, which ends a leadership role he has held since 2018, comes amid rising tensions within the party over discipline and strategic direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“Leaders must act in unity and within the letters of the party constitution,” a senior NEC official said after the meeting. “This decision was reached after robust deliberations and in the interest of our organisational coherence.”
Sifuna’s exit cleared the way for Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo to assume the role of acting Secretary-General, a position she will hold until a formal election is conducted.
Navigating political uncertainty
Sifuna’s removal marks a turning point in his political journey. The senator, known for his organisational skills and outspoken stance on party matters, now faces a period of uncertainty regarding his next steps.
In an interview late last year, Sifuna acknowledged the possibility of stepping down if the party required it. “If I were asked to step aside as SG, I would, this position is not mine,” he said. Despite losing the party leadership role, he retains his Senate seat representing Nairobi, a platform that keeps him relevant in national politics.
Political analysts suggest that Sifuna’s future could include continued influence within ODM, a push for national leadership roles, or exploring alliances outside the party if disagreements persist.
Implications for ODM
The removal of one of its most visible leaders signals a shift in ODM’s internal dynamics. Observers note that the party appears to be consolidating leadership around figures aligned with strategic coalition politics, a move that could strengthen unity but risks alienating dissenting voices.
A Nairobi-based party official commented, “We respect the NEC’s decision, but we must ensure that all voices are heard as we move forward.” The decision comes at a sensitive time, less than two years before national elections, and is likely to influence how ODM negotiates alliances and positions itself against the ruling party.
The broader political impact
Sifuna’s exit has consequences beyond the party. Analysts say it could reshape opposition strategies ahead of 2027, providing opportunities for emerging leaders and creating space for new alliances. Dr Eva Njoroge, a political analyst, said, “Losing a high-profile leader like Sifuna at this stage signals a broader contest within the opposition about how to position itself against the ruling party.”
The senator’s continued presence in the Senate ensures he remains an influential voice in national debates. How he leverages this position could determine whether he strengthens his influence within ODM, pursues new political opportunities, or positions himself for higher office in the next election cycle.
Looking ahead
For Sifuna, the next chapter is open-ended. While his removal as Secretary-General is a setback, it does not diminish his political profile or public visibility. Kenyan political watchers will be watching closely to see whether he becomes a unifying force within ODM, pursues independent political ambitions, or emerges as a key player in opposition realignments.
One thing is clear: Edwin Sifuna’s exit is not just a party matter; it is a development that could shape the trajectory of Kenyan politics leading to 2027.
