Fresh details have emerged regarding the political maneuvering that led to the removal of Edwin Sifuna as Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with reports alleging that delegates were paid shortly before decisive party meetings.
According to reports carried by Kenyan newspapers, President William Ruto is alleged to have played a behind-the-scenes role in events that culminated in Sifuna’s ouster — claims that have intensified tensions within the opposition party.
The developments unfolded even after a court granted Sifuna temporary relief, blocking the immediate gazettement of his removal.
The Standard reported that the plan to remove Sifuna was allegedly finalized during a late-night meeting at State House, where President Ruto is said to have met ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga and senior party figure Oburu Odinga.
The discussion reportedly centered on organizing a National Executive Committee (NEC) session that would push through Sifuna’s removal.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi further claimed that some party officials had initially agreed to postpone the NEC meeting, but that position allegedly shifted after Oburu consulted the President.
The NEC later voted in favor of removing Sifuna, sparking immediate backlash from sections of the party.
More controversy surrounded reports of a separate meeting involving approximately 3,000 Coast region delegates who convened to endorse the NEC resolutions.
Media accounts alleged that each delegate received KSh 5,000 — amounting to roughly KSh 15 million in total.
The source of the funds has not been independently verified, though reports claim the money did not originate from ODM’s official accounts.
Sifuna has maintained that he remains the legitimate ODM Secretary General and has indicated that he will challenge the decision in court.
As the internal standoff continues, political analysts warn that prolonged divisions could undermine ODM’s cohesion ahead of the 2027 General Election.
With competing narratives emerging and legal proceedings expected, the party now faces one of its most consequential internal battles in recent years.
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