The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Orange Democratic Movement leader Oburu Oginga has clarified that the party’s action against Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was disciplinary, not an expulsion.
Addressing supporters at a rally in Makupa, Mombasa, Oburu said ODM members are expected to respect party regulations, warning that any breach would attract consequences. He noted that compliance with party rules guarantees continued membership, while defiance invites sanctions.
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Oburu explained that although Sifuna was asked to step aside over what the party termed indiscipline, he remains a member of ODM. He added that Catherine Omanyo is currently serving as Secretary General, but stressed that Sifuna has not been removed from the party entirely.
He maintained that enforcing discipline is essential for unity and warned against personality-driven politics, saying no individual is above the organisation. According to him, leadership positions must be guided by agreed party structures and rules.
Sifuna, however, has rejected the decision by a section of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), insisting he is still the legitimate Secretary General. The Political Parties Tribunal later reinstated him.
During a press briefing, Sifuna described the move to remove him as unlawful and procedurally flawed, arguing that he had not been informed of any accusations or summoned to defend himself. He said no official party organ had accorded him a fair hearing.
The senator suggested that internal disagreements—particularly his opposition to alleged plans within ODM to back President William Ruto for re-election—may have triggered the dispute.
The standoff underscores deepening divisions within ODM as rival factions clash over discipline, leadership authority, and the party’s political direction.
