The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced the immediate removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary-General, with Deputy Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo set to act in the role until a substantive replacement is elected.
The decision was made during the party’s National Executive Committee meeting in Mombasa on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
“The Party National Executive Committee meeting in Mombasa today has resolved to relieve SG Edwin Sifuna of his responsibilities with immediate effect.
Effectively, Hon. Catherine Omanyo, who is one of the Deputy Secretary Generals, will act in this position until a substantive holder of the office is elected,” the party statement read.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Shariff explained that Sifuna’s dismissal stemmed from repeated disrespect towards Party Leader Oburu Odinga, including questioning the legitimacy of his leadership despite due process being followed.
“It is immoral for anyone to challenge the validity of Oburu Odinga in private or in public. No one is indispensable in this party,” Shariff said.
The move comes after Senator Odinga warned party leaders against making statements that undermine ODM publicly.
Sifuna had recently voiced opposition to ODM’s working relationship with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), escalating tensions within the party.
Reactions to the dismissal have been divided. Supporters of Oburu Odinga welcomed the decision, while critics described it as politically motivated.
Homa Bay MP Peter Kaluma called the action long overdue, urging the party to also remove Sifuna from Parliamentary leadership in the Senate.
Sifuna has served as ODM Secretary-General since February 2018, succeeding Ababu Namwamba. His removal marks a significant shake-up in the party’s leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.
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