NAIROBI, Kenya- Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Odinga has publicly backed Secretary‑General Edwin Sifuna, dealing a significant blow to pro‑Ruto elements within the party who have pushed for his removal amidst deepening internal divisions.
On Wednesday, Oburu met with Sifuna in Nairobi, stressing that the ODM remains a united party despite differences of opinion over strategy and alliances ahead of the 2027 general election.
“He remains a sober and principled voice, embodying the democratic ideals we believe in as a party,” Oburu said.
The reaffirmation of support comes against a backdrop of mounting tensions within ODM, accelerated by the death of its founding leader, Raila Odinga, in October 2025, which created a leadership vacuum and triggered jockeying for political influence.
Sifuna has emerged as a central figure in the rift, with critics within the party accusing him of straying from what they consider the mainstream strategy, particularly regarding the party’s relationship with President William Ruto and the broad‑based government pact signed in March 2025.
Secretary General Sen. @edwinsifuna this morning called on Party Leader Sen. @DrOburu_O at his office in Nairobi. Their meeting centred on the unity and the growth of the party… #TukoTayari
In late December, Sifuna urged that all major party decisions, including any move regarding cooperation with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), be taken through the party’s National Delegates Conference, a clear pushback against unilateral action by factional leaders.
The Secretary‑General has repeatedly warned that ODM should protect its identity and not be subsumed into the broad‑based government framework beyond 2027, insisting the party should present its own presidential candidate and maintain independence.
Pro‑Ruto voices within ODM, including some party legislators and youth leaders, have accused Sifuna of undermining unity and publicly airing disputes, with calls at one point for his removal on grounds of alleged misconduct, a motion that was recently withdrawn in favor of dialogue.
Homa Bay Senator Eddy Oketch has also publicly criticised Sifuna’s conduct, suggesting his party position could be used for political or commercial survival.
“I have nothing personal against Sifuna, but he has this party position, which he may use if he wants. I dare say he may be using it for political or commercial survival,” Homa Bay Senator Eddy Oketch.
The Senator has since withdrawn the motion to remove Sifuna as ODM Secretary General.
Prominent voices such as former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana have cautioned against ejecting Sifuna and others like Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, arguing that such moves could harm the party’s future and betray Raila Odinga’s legacy.
