Fresh changes have rocked the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo was appointed as the Acting Secretary General following the removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
According to reports from sources familiar with the party’s internal deliberations, Omanyo, who previously served as Deputy Secretary General, will now take charge of the party’s Secretariat.
She is expected to steer day-to-day operations as ODM prepares for its crucial National Delegates Convention (NDC) set for March 27, 2026.
Her appointment comes at a time when the party is undergoing major reorganisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Party insiders say the leadership is keen on strengthening internal structures and restoring discipline within its ranks.
Early signs that changes were coming had already emerged after Sifuna failed to attend a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Otsotsi was also absent, a move that raised eyebrows and hinted at growing differences within the party.
Earlier, ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga had issued a warning that the party would take action against leaders considered to be acting against its official position.
Sifuna had openly criticised the government and repeatedly insisted that he would not support any form of cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration, regardless of the party’s direction.
His recent involvement in the Linda Mwananchi tours also appeared to deepen the rift.
The public mobilisation campaign, which began in Busia over the weekend, was seen by some leaders as a parallel political activity.
However, Sifuna has remained defiant. Shortly after news of his removal broke, he took to social media to confirm that the tours would continue.
The next stop is planned for Kitengela on Sunday, February 15, and is expected to attract several high-profile leaders, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Godfrey Otsotsi, and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka.
In another major move, the ODM leadership also resolved to begin the formal process of exiting the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition.
The NEC further mandated Oburu Oginga to lead negotiations with potential political partners as the party repositions itself for future political alliances.
The latest developments signal a period of intense political realignment within ODM, as the party moves to consolidate its leadership and chart a new path ahead of the next election cycle.
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