Senators Edwin Sifuna, Godfrey Osotsi skip ODM NEC meeting in Mombasa

ODM SG Edwin Sifuna/FILE

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi were reportedly absent from the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Mombasa on Tuesday morning.

Sifuna, according to a member of the organ, sent his apologies for not attending, but did not provide more details. Osotsi, meanwhile, said he was engaged in parliamentary work.

“I did not travel to Mombasa as I am currently in Nairobi attending to my Senate responsibilities,” Osotsi, the Vihiga Senator, stated.

Some party insiders indicated that Sifuna’s absence may be connected to tensions within ODM and reports of supporters reportedly mobilised in relation to the meeting.

There have also been reports of discussions within the party about a potential leadership change, including the possible appointment of Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, though the party remains divided on the matter.

Some party members have reportedly called for the NEC to consider a resolution on Sifuna’s position, while others have cautioned that such a move could affect the party’s public image.

“We have always agreed to disagree honourably. This is part of our internal democracy,” ODM National Treasurer Timothy Bosire said ahead of the NEC meeting when asked about disagreements and exchanges among officials.

Party officials were presented with potential scenarios and the implications of any decision to remove Sifuna, stressing adherence to the ODM constitution.

Article 74 of the ODM Constitution on removal from office states that “any person holding an office in the party shall cease to hold such office: upon the expiration of the term of office; upon death; upon resignation from the said office; upon resignation from the Party; and upon being declared bankrupt.”

The article also notes that a person may cease to hold office following a resolution of the National Executive Committee, either on its own initiative or on the recommendation of the Disciplinary Committee or Branch Executive Committee.

“It is hereby provided that prior to the removal of any office bearer, he/she shall be granted adequate opportunity to defend himself/herself against any allegations that may have been made,” Article 74 (3) states.

Last weekend, a faction aligned with Sifuna indicated that its members are prepared to face any consequences, including possible expulsion from the party.

“We will stand up to you. Even if today you decide to expel us, we are ready to return to the people through a by-election. The party that Baba handed over to us must move forward,” Babu Owino, Embakasi East MP, said.

Governor James Orengo added, “Nobody will be forced to enter into a government we do not agree with. ODM must form the next government and present a presidential candidate. Decisions of the party will be guided by the people themselves. This party will not merge into any other party.”