Oburu dismisses Sifuna remarks, says ODM policy is not driven by individual views

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has sought to clarify its stance following recent comments by its Secretary General, Senator Edwin Sifuna, during a recent TV interview.

In a statement released, ODM party leader Oburu Oginga addressed concerns over the Secretary General’s remarks, emphasising the need for responsible debate, adherence to party discipline, and the continuity of the party’s founding principles.

“I have taken note of the Tuesday, February 3, 2026, interview by our Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, on Citizen TV, and the public discourse that has followed,” Oburu said. 

He noted that, as the party leader of ODM, he is tasked with overseeing and steering the party's leadership and its mandate in the national interest and the sustainability of "our beloved Party."

Oburu underscored that ODM has always been a democratic movement that encourages debate and internal discourse. 

However, he pointed out that “in recent months, the SG has occasionally struggled to distinguish between his personal opinions and official Party policy as determined by our constitutionally mandated organs. This has, understandably, created confusion among members and supporters.”

He stressed that ODM policy is formulated through structured deliberations of properly constituted party organs, not individual preference. 

“ODM has, since its inception, demonstrated fidelity to its Constitution and to the rule of law. The same principle has put every individual in their rightful position, including that of Sen. Sifuna,” he said.

Oburu also addressed Sifuna’s questioning of the legitimacy of some national officials, noting the contradiction in his argument. 

“When Sifuna questioned the legality of some national officials on the basis that they were elected by the National Governing Council, he overlooked a fundamental fact: he himself was elected Secretary General by the same organ in February 2018 and discharged the functions of that office fully and effectively until February 2022, when the National Delegates Convention subsequently endorsed him. One cannot selectively invalidate the very processes that conferred legitimacy upon oneself.”

The party leader further highlighted inconsistencies in the Secretary General’s position on pre-election coalition talks.

"In July 2025, on the same public platform, he expressed the view that ODM could not afford to wait until 2027 to deliberate on its post-election strategy. Today, he questions the urgency of initiating discussions with potential pre-election partners. As a responsible political party preparing to form the next government, we must plan ahead. Strategic engagement is not panic; it is prudence.”

Oburu emphasised the importance of internal cohesion and the avoidance of external distractions. “Frequent reference to other coalitions and not ODM's is a concern and needs to be keenly mitigated,” he said.

He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to its founding principles, stating: “In the interest of continuing with Baba's policy and desire for a better Kenya, we will continue to fight for the right of every individual in this country. We are therefore committed to an inter-generational national conclave to create a stronger Party where every generation is represented and given opportunity.”

Oburu called for discipline and unity within the party. 

“ODM remains united, strong, and anchored in its founding values. Debate is welcome, but it must be responsible and aligned with Party discipline. No individual, however senior, is above the collective decisions of the Party. Our objective remains clear: to build a just, inclusive, and democratic Kenya. I call upon all members to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to our shared vision.”

During the interview, Sifuna addressed key party issues, clarifying his stance on internal matters and the 2027 election. 

He warned that the 10-Point Agenda committee and the National Dialogue Committee had made “absolutely zero progress” since August 2025, setting a March 7 deadline for them to deliver a final report.

On the 2027 elections, Sifuna reiterated, “Mimi ni wa one term,” indicating he would not personally support President William Ruto’s re-election, while stressing that ODM has not formally decided on its endorsement. 

He also highlighted concerns over funding of recent ODM rallies, stating they were not financed from official party funds, and expressed frustration over decisions during the late Raila Odinga’s funeral, saying he felt sidelined.

Despite tensions, Sifuna affirmed his commitment to ODM: “I am in ODM, and nobody can kick me out of ODM; I have no intention of leaving.”