Sifuna To Challenge ODM Removal In Court Claiming The Party Violated His Right To A Fair Hearing

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has vowed to take ODM to court over his removal as Secretary-General barely 24 hours after the party's National Executive Committee formally ousted him on Monday June 22. The announcement was made on Tuesday June 23 through his representatives who described the process as fundamentally flawed.

Sifuna argues that the removal violated the party's constitution particularly the principles of fair hearing and due process. 

He draws parallels between this latest ouster and a February 11 2026 NEC resolution that was previously nullified by the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal for denying him the opportunity to defend himself against allegations of gross misconduct.

The fresh removal was announced by acting Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo following a NEC meeting that adopted recommendations from the party's Internal Dispute Resolution Committee. 

The committee's report cited Sifuna's alleged repeated contradictions of party positions absenteeism from key meetings and engagement in unsanctioned political activities. The NEC unanimously endorsed the findings under Article 74(2) of the ODM constitution declaring the removal effective immediately.

A June 18 tribunal ruling had cleared the way for fresh internal proceedings which the party claims it followed by issuing proper notifications. Sifuna however disputes the adequacy of the process insisting it remains procedurally defective and legally challengeable.

His legal team is expected to file a petition at the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal or the High Court seeking to quash the NEC resolution and possibly secure reinstatement pending full determination of the matter.

The tensions trace back to Sifuna's vocal criticism of ODM's perceived alignment with President Ruto's administration through coalition arrangements. His public declarations that certain political MOUs were dead reportedly angered senior party figures close to Raila Odinga and acting chairman Oburu Odinga.

Sifuna retains his position as Nairobi Senator and deputy minority whip in the Senate. Speculation is however rife about potential further repercussions including changes in his Senate committee roles.

His supporters have rallied behind him with chants of "Sisi Ndio Sifuna" while critics argue his removal was long overdue. The legal battle ahead will test both ODM's internal dispute resolution mechanisms and the judiciary's appetite to intervene in party affairs.