The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has made a significant change in its leadership, removing Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his role as Secretary General. The decision was announced after a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Mombasa on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.This move comes amid growing tensions within the party, which has been a major force in Kenyan politics for two decades. The party’s official statement, read by Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo, cited concerns over “rising levels of indiscipline within the Party, particularly at the senior leadership level.” Ms. Omanyo has been appointed as the acting Secretary General until a permanent replacement is elected.
The NEC, chaired by party leader Dr. Oburu Oginga, emphasized that ODM is governed by its constitution and the rule of law, and that decisions are made collectively. The removal of Sifuna, a vocal and often controversial figure, is seen by many as a move to consolidate control and enforce party discipline.
A Party at a Crossroads
The leadership shake-up doesn’t stop with Sifuna. The NEC also removed Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Kipkorir Menjo, and Taita Taveta Senator Johnes Mwaruma from the committee. These changes are happening at a critical time for ODM, as it navigates its future following the death of its long-serving leader, Raila Odinga, last year. The party is also re-evaluating its position within the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition, with the NEC resolving to begin the process of withdrawing from the alliance, citing breaches of the coalition agreement.
Dr. Oginga has been formally mandated to lead negotiations for any new pre-election coalitions, which will be guided by the party’s core principles and the interests of its members. This signals a strategic repositioning for ODM as it looks ahead to future political contests.
The Heart of the Matter
The tensions that led to Sifuna’s ouster have been simmering for some time. The former Secretary General had been publicly critical of the party’s direction, particularly regarding potential talks with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA). He had also questioned the legitimacy of some party officials and raised concerns about the party’s finances, including billions owed by the National Treasury.
In a recent television interview, Sifuna’s comments about the party’s internal affairs drew a sharp rebuke from Dr. Oginga, who accused him of misleading supporters and undermining the very party structures that brought him to power. This public spat appears to have been the final straw for the party leadership.
What’s Next for ODM?
As ODM charts its new course, the focus will be on maintaining unity and stability. The party has directed the National Assembly Minority Leader, Junet Mohamed, to ensure that the proposed Ksh. 450 billion allocation to counties is included in the upcoming supplementary budget. ODM is also calling for the government to compensate victims of human rights violations, with funds to be managed by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to ensure transparency.
With Catherine Omanyo at the helm in an acting capacity, the party will be looking to restore order and focus on its political agenda. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these leadership changes will strengthen ODM or deepen the existing rifts. For now, the orange party is sending a clear message: discipline and loyalty are paramount as it prepares for the next chapter in its political journey.)
