- Treasury CS John Mbadi defended ODM’s move to push out Edwin Sifuna
- He said party spokespersons must stick to agreed official positions
- Sifuna was recommended for removal by the National Executive Committee
- Catherine Omanyo has been named acting Secretary General
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has supported the Orange Democratic Movement’s decision to remove Edwin Sifuna as Secretary General.
Speaking during a television interview on Wednesday night, Mbadi said the move was based on party discipline and not personal conflict.
He explained that a party spokesperson is required to communicate official positions, not personal views that go against agreed resolutions.
Mbadi stated that once the party’s Central Committee or National Executive Committee makes a decision, it becomes binding.
According to him, any official who feels unable to defend that position publicly should consider stepping aside.
He added that Sifuna’s case followed internal procedures outlined in the party constitution.
The CS clarified that Sifuna has only been recommended for removal by the National Executive Committee (NEC).
The recommendation will now move to the National Governing Council and later to the National Delegates Council for final approval.
Mbadi said an acting official is appointed during this period until the process is completed.
Following the NEC meeting held in Mombasa on Wednesday, ODM Deputy Secretary General and Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo was appointed acting Secretary General.
The meeting was chaired by party leader Dr Oburu Oginga.
In its statement, the NEC cited concerns about discipline within the party’s top leadership as the reason for the action.
Mbadi indicated that similar steps could be taken against other party officials if necessary. He mentioned that senior leaders who take positions that clash with party direction often find it difficult to remain in the same political outfit.
He noted that Sifuna’s political path had made his continued stay in the role difficult.
During the same meeting, the NEC adopted resolutions earlier approved by the Central Committee.
One of the key decisions was to mandate Oburu Oginga to lead discussions on ODM’s pre-election coalition plans.
The party also resolved to begin the formal process of exiting the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition. ODM cited repeated violations of the coalition agreement by some partners.
According to the party, these steps are aimed at protecting its independence and strengthening its future political strategy.
With leadership changes underway and coalition talks shifting direction, ODM appears to be entering a new phase.
As the ratification process continues, attention now turns to how the party will manage its internal restructuring and future alliances.
