A political storm is brewing in the Orange Democratic Movement as Migori Senator Eddy Oketch pushes for the removal of Nairobi Senator and party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, accusing him of misconduct and undermining party rules.
Oketch says Sifuna’s actions have jeopardized the party’s unity and public reputation, demanding swift disciplinary action.
In a motion submitted to ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga on January 5, 2025, Oketch’s legal team claims that Sifuna has flagrantly violated the party’s constitution while holding leadership positions.
They argue that Sifuna should be treated as having resigned from the party for allegedly promoting the policies or interests of another political group, a move that breaches Section 14A (1)(e) of the Political Parties Act.
Oketch further contends that Sifuna has ignored the party’s code of conduct and refused to follow lawful decisions made by ODM organs. He highlighted the Secretary General’s public comments on internal party matters, particularly regarding the collection and allocation of funds for Raila Odinga’s unsuccessful 2022 presidential campaign.
The motion also cites a bitter public clash between Sifuna and Suna East MP Junet Mohamed over the handling of campaign funds, an episode that exposed divisions within ODM.
“The revelation of such confidential information which is considered an internal affair greatly jeopardizes the Party's image and public standing,” the motion stated.
Additionally, Oketch accused Sifuna of contradicting the party’s stance on the Broad-Based Government arrangement, which he said has frustrated efforts to present a united front. Based on these claims, Oketch has asked for Sifuna to be immediately removed from all parliamentary leadership roles and committees he currently holds.
The Migori senator also called on the party to begin proceedings to remove Sifuna from the members register and, if found guilty, to expel him. The move comes amid growing unease among party members over Sifuna’s conduct and fears that his actions could deepen factional tensions in ODM.
As internal disagreements continue to surface, the dispute raises questions about the stability of ODM’s leadership and the ability of the party to remain cohesive in the post-Raila Odinga era.
