The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) on Thursday, March 26, dismissed a case challenging the removal of Senator Edwin Sifuna as the Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The tribunal ruled that the petitioner had failed to exhaust the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms before approaching the court.
In its decision, the tribunal emphasized that party constitutions provide clear procedures for resolving internal disagreements, and members must follow these channels before seeking external intervention.
PPDT Dismisses Case Challenging Sifuna’s Removal as ODM Secretary-General. Photo: Courtesy.
The PPDT stated that bypassing internal processes undermines party discipline and the spirit of democratic dispute resolution within political organizations.
The case comes amid ongoing tensions within ODM, where leadership battles and factionalism have intensified in recent months.
The NEC’s decision to remove Sifuna is seen as part of broader moves to consolidate authority and manage rival interests within the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Notably, the ruling comes hours before the planned ODM Special Delegates Convention scheduled for Friday, March 27, at the Jamhuri grounds in Nairobi.
The party is expected to discuss several issues affecting the party, including the reinstatement of Oburu Odinga as the party leader, with Sifuna’s ouster also expected to be discussed.
