ODM Rift Widens as Oburu and Sifuna Clash Over Party Control and 2027 Strategy

A fresh storm has hit the Orange Democratic Movement as party leader Oburu Odinga publicly took on Secretary General Edwin Sifuna. The dispute has exposed deep cracks inside the opposition party.

The clash began after Sifuna questioned the legitimacy of some ODM officials during a TV interview. Oburu responded with a strongly worded letter, warning that such remarks were misleading and harmful to party unity. He said ODM policy is shaped by its official organs, not by personal opinions.

“In recent months, the secretary general has struggled to separate his personal views from official party policy, and that has created confusion among members,” Oburu wrote. “ODM policy is not shaped by individual preference. It is the product of structured deliberation through properly constituted party organs.”

Oburu also rejected Sifuna’s claim that some leaders were holding office illegally. He insisted that all officials were lawfully endorsed by party structures. He reminded Sifuna that he, too, was elected through the same system.

“When Sifuna questions the legality of officials elected by the National Governing Council, he forgets that he himself was elected by the same organ in 2018,” Oburu said. “One cannot selectively invalidate the very process that gave them legitimacy.”

The disagreement reflects a wider fight over ODM’s future. Sifuna and his allies believe the party should stand firmly as an opposition force. Others, including Oburu, support talks with President William Ruto’s UDA party ahead of the 2027 election.

Sifuna has refused to resign. He maintains that only a delegates’ conference can remove him. He also says such a meeting is needed to give the party clear direction. “The only way to sort this out is through a proper delegates’ conference,” Sifuna said in the interview.

The row has drawn in other party figures. Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga came to Sifuna’s defence. She said his stance should not be seen as rebellion but as part of healthy political debate.

As ODM leaders trade sharp words, party supporters are left watching closely. With 2027 approaching, the party must decide whether to unite around a single path or risk deepening divisions that could weaken its influence on the national stage.