Oburu’s Installation as ODM Leader Was Unprocedural -Edwin Sifuna

ODM SG and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna speaks on Citizen TV’s The Explainer show on February 3, 2026.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has faulted the installation of Oburu Oginga as interim party leader, saying the process did not follow the party’s constitutional procedures.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Sifuna said the decision was rushed and failed to comply with provisions outlined in the party constitution.

“The installation of Oburu Oginga as interim party leader was not procedural in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution,” Sifuna said.

He argued that the party should have followed a temporary and structured transition process before settling on an interim leader.

“What I would have advised, had I been in that meeting, is to allow one of the deputies to act. They could even act for one month, and then within three months, call for a special National Delegates Conference and do it procedurally and properly,” he said.

Sifuna explained that he was not present during the meeting where the decision was made, noting that he was engaged in party-related duties at the time.

“I was not in that meeting because I was going to fetch my party leader to bring Baba back home,” he said.

The ODM Secretary-General also downplayed suggestions that his absence influenced the outcome, saying the meeting proceeded without waiting for him.

“I don’t think anybody considers me important enough to be waited upon, and they have their reasons why they did it in the manner they did,” Sifuna added.

His remarks come amid growing debate within the party over leadership succession and adherence to internal democratic processes following recent changes at the top of the party.