We haven't chased Sifuna from ODM, its just a punishment- Oburu Odinga

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga on Sunday dismissed reports that Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna had been expelled from the party, clarifying that he was only asked to step aside over alleged indiscipline but remains a member.

Speaking at Shalom Miracle Church in Makupa, Mombasa, Oginga said ODM operates under firm rules that apply to all members without exception.

“If you do not follow the rules of the party, you stay out. If you respect them, you remain part of us,” he said, adding that even senior officials, including himself, would face disciplinary action if they breached party regulations.

According to Oginga, the move was intended to reinforce unity and accountability within the party rather than remove Sifuna entirely.

“Someone must feel the consequences of breaking the rules so that the party can remain united. Nobody is bigger than the party. Those rules were made for us to follow, and they must be followed strictly,” he stated.

He further announced that Catherine Omanyo would act as secretary-general during Sifuna’s absence to ensure smooth operations.

“We have our SG Catherine Omanyo, and for the other (Sifuna), the party said he should step aside for a bit because of indiscipline, but we did not chase him away,” Oginga said.

On February 11, ODM’s National Executive Committee resolved to remove Sifuna from his position as secretary-general.

In response, Sifuna moved to the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT), challenging the decision and securing temporary relief.

In an order issued on February 12, Acting Chairperson Gad Gathu certified the application as urgent and directed that it be served immediately on ODM and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.

“The notice of motion application dated 11th February 2026 is hereby certified urgent,” the tribunal ruled, effectively suspending implementation of the NEC resolution pending further hearing.

The dispute highlights growing internal tensions within ODM as the party adjusts to a post-Raila Odinga era and repositions itself ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Disagreements over leadership, strategy and the party’s stance towards the government have deepened divisions among senior figures, with discipline and loyalty emerging as key fault lines.