High Court Stops Sifuna’s Removal as ODM Secretary General
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna can breathe a sigh of relief after the High Court halted his removal as ODM Secretary General.
On Thursday, February 12, the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal ordered the gazettement of Sifuna’s ouster to be suspended pending further hearings.
- “Pending the hearing and determination of this instant application, this tribunal hereby stays the implementation of the NEC resolution,” the court ruled.
Additionally, the tribunal barred ODM and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties from publishing Sifuna’s removal in the Kenya Gazette
Court Schedules Petition Mention
The tribunal scheduled the mention of Sifuna’s petition for February 26, 2026. Meanwhile, it will continue reviewing the matter.
The ruling came hours after Sifuna filed a petition challenging the NEC’s February 11 decision. Consequently, the legal process officially began.
Sifuna Calls Removal Unlawful
Speaking to the press, Sifuna condemned the NEC action as unlawful and unprocedural. He vowed to fight the decision in court.
“I have noted the NEC announcement in Mombasa purporting to remove me as Secretary General,” Sifuna said. Moreover, he stressed that the action violates the ODM constitution.
He added that the removal was politically motivated because he refused to support President William Ruto’s re-election plans.
“My only crime is opposing schemes within the party to back President Ruto,” Sifuna said, noting his nine years of service as Secretary General.
ODM NEC Justifies Removal
A day earlier, ODM’s NEC resolved to remove Sifuna and appoint Catherine Omanyo as acting Secretary General.
The NEC, chaired by Oburu Odinga, cited rising concerns over discipline and leadership conduct among senior party members.
“Having deliberated on matters relating to the conduct of Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, the NEC resolved to remove him effective immediately,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, Omanyo will serve in an acting capacity until the party elects a substantive officeholder.
Legal Battle Looms
The High Court’s ruling temporarily shields Sifuna.
Consequently, a legal battle over the legality of ODM’s actions is now underway.
Ultimately, the tribunal’s review on February 26 will determine the next steps for both Sifuna and the party leadership.
