The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faces fresh internal conflicts. A split has grown among its top leaders.
Some party figures want to oust Secretary General Edwin Sifuna. They also call for his removal as Senate Minority Leader. Others caution against this step.
These events reveal ongoing power fights inside the party.
The issue picked up speed when Migori Senator Eddy Oketch filed a petition. He sought Sifuna’s removal as ODM Secretary General.
Oketch charged Sifuna with serious misconduct. This drew focus to the tough legal and political steps needed to remove a party secretary general.
The petition laid bare cracks in ODM’s decision-making setup.
More than the claims, it sparked key questions on party rules and control.
Sifuna got short-term relief. Senator Oketch pulled back the petition. Sources say senior leader Oburu Odinga stepped in. This helped limit the damage. The direct risk has faded for now.
How to remove a party Secretary General
The Political Parties Act of 2022 and ODM’s constitution set the rules. A member can petition the national chairperson for removal. The chair handles member discipline.
The petition must list clear facts. Grounds include serious misconduct, breaking party rules, or backing rival ideas.
The chair sends it to the disciplinary committee. Under Article 8.4.2 of the ODM constitution, the committee holds a fair hearing. The accused gets a chance to respond under basic justice rules.
If guilty, the committee may suggest suspension or expulsion. This goes to the party’s top body.
The National Executive Council (NEC) meets to review and approve it.
NEC members vote. A simple majority can start the removal.
Once decided, the party tells the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP).
Has this occurred before?
ODM has seen fights over its Secretary General role in the past.
Back in 2016, Ababu Namwamba lost the post as Secretary General. He faced claims of neglecting duties.
Edwin Sifuna then stepped in as acting SG. He led youth backers to party offices.
Namwamba quit soon after. He blamed frustration and threats.
ODM named Agnes Zani as temporary Secretary General.
Sifuna took the full role in February 2018. This came at a National Executive Committee meeting.
