The crunch session, chaired by party leader Oburu Oginga, comes against a backdrop of deepening rifts triggered by the proposed pre-2027 cooperation—or potential coalition—between ODM and UDA. Hardline loyalists to the late Raila Odinga’s legacy, including vocal critics of any broad-based government alignment, are reportedly in the crosshairs.
At the center of the storm is Nairobi Senator and Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, whose position faces the strongest push for removal. Former ODM chairperson and current National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has openly demanded Sifuna’s immediate expulsion, accusing him of “selling the agenda of someone else,” defying party leader Oburu Oginga, and spearheading factionalism through campaigns like “Linda Wananchi.”
Mbadi has warned that Sifuna’s continued presence is untenable, branding him a rebel leader undermining party unity. Reports indicate momentum is building among pro-Oburu factions to replace Sifuna with a preferred candidate, such as a figure aligned with the current leadership direction.
Flanking Sifuna in the line of fire are Siaya Governor James Orengo and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi. Sources close to the party suggest the trio—key figures in resisting forced alignment with UDA—could face disciplinary sanctions, rebuke, or outright expulsion for allegedly defying the party’s collective will and obstructing coalition talks.
Orengo has fired back defiantly in recent statements, warning that ousting Sifuna would spell “the end of ODM” and insisting the party must not be “swallowed” by others. Osotsi has dismissed expulsion threats as irregular and illegal, stressing that any action against officials must follow proper disciplinary procedures under the party constitution.
The NEC gathering follows days of escalating tensions, including absences from prior Central Management Committee sessions by Sifuna and Osotsi, and public barbs from both sides. While some pro-coalition voices argue for swift action to streamline the party ahead of 2027 elections, critics warn that purges could fracture ODM irreparably, especially in its Nyanza stronghold.
As the meeting unfolds in Mombasa—timed ahead of the party’s Coast delegates conference—the outcome could redefine ODM’s future trajectory: consolidation under Oburu’s leadership or a messy split that weakens the opposition giant.
Party insiders remain tight-lipped on potential resolutions, but the atmosphere is charged, with fears that today’s decisions could trigger a wave of resignations or legal battles if expulsions proceed without due process.
ODM’s internal drama underscores the high political stakes in Kenya’s evolving landscape, where alliances forged in government could either stabilize or shatter long-standing loyalties. All eyes are on Mombasa as the Orange party confronts its deepest crisis in years.
