The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is witnessing growing internal tensions over the secretary general position after party leader Oburu Oginga publicly backed Busia Women Representative Catherine Omanyo. Speaking at the party headquarters in Nairobi on March 10, 2026, Oburu encouraged Omanyo to remain confident in her leadership despite critics questioning her authority, while also casting doubt on Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s claims to the office amid ongoing legal proceedings.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing intensified internal divisions over its secretary general position following a public endorsement by party leader Oburu Oginga for Busia Women Representative Catherine Omanyo. Speaking during a meeting at the party headquarters in Nairobi on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, ahead of the 10-point agenda review, Oburu lauded Omanyo’s leadership, urging her to maintain confidence despite criticism from party factions questioning her authority. He emphasized that she should focus on strengthening the party’s structures and dismiss claims suggesting she is only serving in an acting capacity.
“I am so impressed and inspired by your speech. You should be confident because you are our SG. Ignore all other processes going on, people saying you are acting. As far as we are concerned, we gave you the power to work as our SG,” Oburu said.
The endorsement appears to challenge Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has been involved in a legal dispute over the secretary general position. Oburu highlighted Sifuna’s absence from key party activities, indirectly questioning the senator’s continued assertion to the office. This development signals a possible intensification of factionalism within ODM as the party navigates leadership uncertainties ahead of critical internal reforms and agenda reviews.
