Tribunal to Rule on Edwin Sifuna’s Removal as ODM Secretary General on March 26

Nairobi, Kenya – The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) has set March 26 as the date it will deliver judgment on the dispute surrounding the removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as the ODM Secretary General.

The announcement was made on Thursday, March 12, by PPDT Vice Chair Gad Gathu after the tribunal heard submissions from Sifuna’s lawyers, as well as representatives from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the Registrar of Political Parties.

“We will deliberate on this matter and give a judgment on March 26 at 2.30 pm. That is the earliest available date taking into account the tribunal's workload,” Gathu said.

Sifuna Challenges Removal

Through his legal team, Sifuna argued that the decision by the National Delegates Council to remove him from the position was flawed and asked the tribunal to declare it null and void. He also requested the court to award him the costs of the petition.

However, ODM’s legal team, led by Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang’, maintained that the process of removing Sifuna was not final and is still ongoing within the party structures.

“This process is continuous until the National Delegates Convention, which has the power to elect. That is why the Deputy SG is in an acting capacity,” Kajwang’ stated.

Registrar’s Position

The Registrar of Political Parties also told the tribunal that the case had been brought prematurely, noting that no formal decision had been made by the office that would justify being sued under Section 40 of the Political Parties Act.

Despite the internal wrangles, Sifuna has maintained that he remains the legitimate Secretary General of ODM, rejecting the appointment of Catherine Omanyo in an acting capacity.

The dispute reportedly escalated after Sifuna publicly declared that he would not support President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election, a position that drew criticism from some party leaders.

ODM leader Oburu Odinga has since emphasized the need for party members to uphold party values and discipline those who deviate from the party’s position.

The tribunal’s ruling later this month is expected to determine the legality of the move to remove Sifuna and clarify the leadership structure within ODM.