Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has rejected the removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as the secretary general of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), calling the decision “irregular” and a betrayal of the party’s principles.
Owino spoke during a press conference on Thursday morning in Nairobi, attended by Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Winnie Odinga, and Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osotsi.
Owino condemned the party leaders who orchestrated Sifuna’s removal, describing the process as a breach of ODM’s constitution.
“I want to state that the removal of Sifuna from office is not taken lightly by this team, and I want to condemn the leaders who made this decision,” he said.
He accused the ODM National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Mombasa of being irregular and aimed solely at ousting Sifuna.
“We know what Baba stood for. Baba stood for justice, Baba stood for fair hearing and trial. The meeting that took place in Mombasa was irregular. That meeting was set up to remove the current Secretary General of ODM, Edwin Sifuna, from office,” Owino stated.
The lawmaker criticized party leaders for violating the same constitution they had sworn to uphold.
“These leaders were seen at one point in Mombasa taking a sacred oath to uphold and protect the party constitution, the same constitution that they are now not following. There was no proper procedure that was followed,” he said.
Owino’s remarks indicate a widening rift within ODM, with key figures rallying behind Sifuna.
He warned that the battle over the party’s leadership would not be short-lived, framing the dispute as a clear divide between supporters and opponents.
“I want to assure you that we are going to fight. The war has been declared. A line has been drawn. If you are on our side, you are on our side. If you are on the other side, then fight on the other side. But this is not going to stop anytime soon,” he declared.
Sifuna’s removal from office, which took effect following a NEC decision on Wednesday, has sparked reactions across the party, with supporters questioning the legitimacy of the process.
Thursday’s press briefing reinforced the narrative that the ouster could deepen factionalism within ODM ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As tensions rise, Owino’s statements signal a more confrontational approach from Sifuna’s allies, suggesting that the battle over party leadership and adherence to internal rules is far from over.