The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) has officially removed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership register, bringing to a close a prolonged dispute over his position as the party’s Secretary-General. The decision follows a resolution by ODM’s National Executive Committee (NEC), which had earlier ousted Sifuna from the role. In a letter addressed to him at his Parliament office, the Registrar confirmed that the process complied with the Political Parties Act and the ODM party constitution.
According to the ORPP, the move was finalized after reviewing documents submitted by the party and noting the absence of a formal response from Sifuna as required under Article 47 of the Constitution. The Registrar stated that the necessary updates have now been made to the party’s official records. However, Sifuna has contested the decision through his lawyer, Isaac Okero, who raised concerns over the manner in which the process was concluded. The legal team argued that key procedural requirements under Section 20(2) of the Political Parties Act were not followed, terming the action unlawful and indicating plans to seek legal redress.
Meanwhile, ODM leaders have welcomed the Registrar’s decision. Deputy Secretary-General and Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo said the party can now move forward after what she described as a long wait for clarity on the matter.
Omanyo added that the party could not continue accommodating individuals pursuing separate agendas while still holding leadership positions, emphasizing the need for unity and discipline within ODM ranks. The development marks a significant moment for the party as it seeks to reorganize its leadership and refocus its internal structures.
