Catherine Omanyo. Photo/Coutrtesy
Kenyan politics witnessed a significant leadership shift on Wednesday as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Executive Committee (NEC) removed Senator Edwin Sifuna as party Secretary-General, appointing Busia County Woman Representative Catherine Nakhabi Omanyo as acting Secretary-General pending the election of a substantive office-holder.
The decision emerged from a high-stakes NEC meeting in Mombasa, signalling a major reorganisation within one of the country’s largest political parties.
Who is Catherine Omanyo?
Catherine Omanyo, born on 7 July 1978 in Busia County, is a seasoned politician, education advocate and human rights activist.
Education
She holds a Bachelor of Education (Arts) from the University of Nairobi and has built a notable profile through grassroots initiatives and community service.
Before entering full-time politics, Omanyo founded the International School for Champions, a tuition-free school in Busia dedicated to supporting orphaned and underprivileged children, underscoring her long-standing commitment to education and social welfare.
Early Life
Her early life was marked by hardship after the death of her father when she was a teenager.
Her mother’s decision to defy customary inheritance practices forced the family into adversity, shaping Omanyo’s resilience and determination to pursue education and public service.
While studying in Nairobi on scholarship, she tutored children in informal settlements, an experience that would later inspire her work with disadvantaged families.
Political Journey
Omanyo’s political journey spans nearly two decades.
She first contested elective office in 2007, later pursuing parliamentary bids in 2013 and 2017 before winning the Busia Woman Representative seat in 2022 on an ODM ticket.
In Parliament, she has championed development priorities such as borehole drilling, anti-jigger health campaigns, menstrual health initiatives, and widow support programmes in her county.
Appointed to Replace Sifuna
Her elevation to acting Secretary-General places her at the centre of ODM’s internal strategy ahead of key milestones, including the March 27 National Delegates Convention and the 2027 General Election, where party direction and coalition negotiations will feature prominently.
Omanyo’s appointment reflects her growing influence within ODM ranks and a recognition of her decades-long activism and political service.