Hours after Edwin Sifuna was dismissed as Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua addressed reports suggesting the opposition might recruit him.
Speaking on Thursday, February 12, during a TV47 interview, Karua said the opposition would take a cautious approach and allow developments within ODM to unfold before making any moves.
“We will not hurry to do that. We will let him choose his own path, and we are not sure that he has been ousted properly. We wait for things to unfold. He might end up coming back bigger and better,” Karua said.
Martha Karua Says Opposition Move for Sifuna After ODM Ouster Is Overstated. Photo: Courtesy.
She also questioned the procedural handling of Sifuna’s removal, suggesting that the situation reflects deeper internal conflicts within the party.
Karua, however, commended Sifuna for his contributions to ODM, describing him as a capable and effective leader who has significantly influenced the party’s progress.
Sifuna was removed from his role as ODM Secretary General after a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Mombasa on Wednesday, February 11, and chaired by Oburu Oginga.
He was replaced by Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo, who will serve in an acting capacity as the party prepares to appoint a substantive office holder.
“The Party National Executive Committee meeting in Mombasa today has resolved to relieve SG Edwin Sifuna of his responsibilities with immediate effect. Effectively, Hon. Catherine Omanyo, who is one of the Deputy Secretary Generals, will act in this position until a substantive holder of the office is elected,” ODM said in a statement.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Shariff stated that Sifuna’s dismissal was linked to what the party viewed as repeated acts of disrespect towards Oburu, emphasising that discipline and respect for party leadership remain key principles within ODM.
