Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has dug in his heels, refusing to step down as Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General despite being removed by the party's National Executive Committee (NEC). "I am still the legitimately elected Secretary General of the ODM party," Sifuna declared, vowing to contest the move.
Sifuna claims the NEC's decision is "illegal and unconstitutional," violating the ODM constitution and principles of natural justice. He argues that no lawful party organ summoned him or gave him a chance to defend himself. His removal stems from opposition to ODM's cooperation with President William Ruto's government, which he believes goes against the party's values.
Supporters, including Siaya Governor James Orengo and MPs Caleb Amisi and Babu Owino, have rallied behind Sifuna, calling the move a "coup" within ODM. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, however, has defended the NEC's decision, citing indiscipline and breaches of party protocol. The ODM has appointed Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo as acting Secretary General until a substantive replacement is elected.
Sifuna claims the NEC's decision is "illegal and unconstitutional," violating the ODM constitution and principles of natural justice. He argues that no lawful party organ summoned him or gave him a chance to defend himself. His removal stems from opposition to ODM's cooperation with President William Ruto's government, which he believes goes against the party's values.
Supporters, including Siaya Governor James Orengo and MPs Caleb Amisi and Babu Owino, have rallied behind Sifuna, calling the move a "coup" within ODM. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, however, has defended the NEC's decision, citing indiscipline and breaches of party protocol. The ODM has appointed Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo as acting Secretary General until a substantive replacement is elected.
