Fresh remarks by Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo on ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna have triggered a sharp response from political analyst Kipkalya Kones, exposing deepening divisions within the party.
In a recent interview, Omanyo dismissed claims of a personal fallout with Sifuna, saying their differences are political.
She described him as a “friend and brother,” but maintained that his position depends on whether he aligns with the party’s direction.
She also stressed the need for discipline within ODM amid the ongoing disagreements.
Her comments have now drawn criticism from Kones, who accused the deputy secretary general of focusing on internal fights instead of her mandate.
“The amount of time Catherine Omanyo spends trying to prove she is worthy of the seat she was given is mind boggling,” Kones said.
He argued that her public statements have largely centred on Sifuna and internal disputes instead of strengthening party structures.
“Instead of doing real SG work and using her short time in office to shine, she speaks about everything and everyone except her job,” he added.
Kones also faulted her position on neutrality, following her criticism of Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo for staying neutral in the ongoing wrangles.
“Imagine the deputy SG does not want neutral people, yet such figures are crucial if there is ever to be reconciliation. She wants everyone to fight,” he said.
He linked Omanyo’s stance to wider factional interests within ODM, claiming some leaders are acting under influence from powerful figures within the party.
“You can tell the deputy SG is under instructions from someone. There is a pattern in how she is handling these issues,” Kones claimed.
Kones further questioned the priorities of ODM’s current leadership, saying there appears to be more focus on political showdowns than grassroots mobilisation.
“I don’t know if Omanyo even goes to the SG’s office. If she does, she will find files on all 47 counties, and her first task should be to check how those offices are functioning,” he said.
He urged her to focus on strengthening membership and policy direction within the party.
“She can spend time driving membership, or even come up with a policy blueprint to guide the party going forward. Those are the real responsibilities of that office,” he added.
The criticism comes at a time when ODM is facing internal tensions over leadership authority, party discipline, and its approach to working with President William Ruto’s administration.
While some leaders support cooperation, others have pushed for a more independent stance.
Kones warned that continued infighting risks weakening the party ahead of the next election cycle.
“The title of deputy SG of ODM is too big to waste on non-issues. She should get to work and define her time in office,” he said.