Tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) escalated on Thursday after Mombasa Governor and Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir responded to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and his allies, who have rejected his removal as Secretary General.
Sifuna had challenged the legitimacy of the National Executive Committee (NEC) decision, arguing that proper procedures under the party’s constitution were not followed.
He maintained that the NEC lacked quorum, that no formal charges or opportunities for response were given, and vowed to continue performing his duties until a lawful and constitutional process determines otherwise.
The Nairobi Senator also warned against internal intimidation, asserting that ODM was founded on principles of democracy, accountability, and open debate.
In his Facebook statement, Nassir dismissed these claims, accusing Sifuna’s camp of “political hypocrisy.”
He alleged that some leaders, while publicly calling for transparency, had secretly planned their exit from ODM, including forming alternative political groups and negotiating with rival parties, all while still representing the party.
“ODM is working in the open. If others have already left, they should say so plainly,” Nassir said.
“We will not be distracted by theatrics. Our mandate is clear, our process is transparent, and our loyalty is to the people, not to backroom whispers.”
The exchange has highlighted the growing rift within ODM, with one side defending leadership decisions and the other questioning their legality and transparency.
The dispute comes at a politically sensitive moment, as ODM navigates internal alignments ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.
Party cohesion may be further tested as leaders publicly weigh loyalty to party structures against personal ambitions.
The coming weeks are expected to show whether ODM leadership will mediate the standoff or allow internal organs to resolve the matter conclusively.