ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna could be on the verge of losing his position as fresh details emerge about his possible successor in a looming leadership shake-up within the Orange Democratic Movement.
The party is holding a crucial National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Mombasa, followed by a press briefing after a closed-door session that is expected to make far-reaching decisions.
According to The Star, there is a plan within the party to replace Sifuna with Busia Governor Paul Otuoma.
Sources indicate that Otuoma is being fronted as a strategic choice, described as a leader who would “work seamlessly with party leader Oburu” amid the party’s decision to work with President William Ruto.
Tensions within ODM have reportedly escalated in recent days. Reports indicate that some of Sifuna’s close allies were removed from the NEC WhatsApp group, sparking speculation of an internal purge and deepening divisions within the party ranks.
The NEC is also expected to take disciplinary action against members perceived to be resisting ODM’s collaboration with President William Ruto’s UDA party.
Those reportedly under scrutiny include Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga.
Under the ODM Constitution, any disciplinary process must begin with a formal complaint lodged before the relevant committee, which then submits recommendations to the NEC for action.
In a related development, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has already been removed from his position as Deputy National Organising Secretary in the NEC. In a letter signed by NEC Director Eduor Ong’wen, Amisi was instructed to vacate the committee seat following his election as ODM Chairperson for Trans Nzoia County.