Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has strongly criticised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following the removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as the party’s Secretary General.
In a press release issued in Nairobi on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Babu Owino described the National Executive Committee (NEC) that made the decision as illegally constituted. He questioned the legitimacy of the move, arguing that such a body lacks the authority to remove a duly elected official.
“Illegal Officeholders Cannot Remove a Legal Officeholder”
“There’s no way that illegal officeholders can remove a legal officeholder from office. The only mistake Sifuna or we made was to fight for the less privileged, for jobs for our youths, and against the high cost of living that is affecting Kenyans,” Babu said.
The outspoken legislator framed Sifuna’s ouster as political victimisation, claiming that his colleague was targeted for standing up for ordinary Kenyans and speaking out on economic hardships.
Babu Owino further alleged that rival factions within ODM have effectively declared internal war, suggesting that the party is experiencing serious internal divisions.
He described Sifuna as a victim of internal power struggles, particularly for defending the rights of the less privileged, advocating for youth employment, and criticising the rising cost of living.
The remarks add to the growing storm within ODM following the NEC’s decision to relieve Sifuna of his duties. Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo has since been appointed to act in the position until a substantive office holder is elected.
ODM Faces Deepening Divisions
The controversy surrounding Sifuna’s removal has exposed visible cracks within the party as it prepares for the 2027 General Election. While some leaders insist the NEC acted within its mandate, others have challenged both the legality and fairness of the decision.
As tensions continue to escalate, political observers say the unfolding dispute could significantly influence ODM’s unity and positioning ahead of future political contests.
