NAIROBI,KENYA: Babu Owino condemns Sifuna removal from the ODM Secretary-General position, calling it unconstitutional and politically motivated amid rising tensions in the party.
Embakasi MP and lifetime ODM member Babu Owino has strongly condemned the removal of Sifuna from office, describing it as a blatant violation of the party’s constitution and principles. Speaking during a press briefing while accompanied by Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Winnie Odinga—the daughter of the late Raila Odinga, the party founder—and other party leadership, Babu Owino said the decision:
“is not taken on a light note and goes against what Baba stood for.”
He further slammed the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Mombasa, calling it “an illegal kangaroo meeting” and accusing the leaders of acting contrary to the party constitution they had sworn to uphold.
“The illegal removal of Sifuna from office is a serious matter,” Babu Owino said.
“The meeting in Mombasa was an illegal kangaroo session, and the leaders went against the party constitution they took an oath to uphold.”
The press briefing comes amid rising tension within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following the NEC’s announcement that Sifuna had been removed from the powerful Secretary-General position. Babu Owino’s statement reflects a growing dissent among senior party figures who view the decision as unconstitutional and politically motivated. While addressing the media, Babu Owino emphasized the importance of upholding the party’s internal democratic processes and warned that unilateral decisions outside the provisions of the constitution undermine the credibility of ODM’s leadership. Observers note that the presence of Sifuna, Governor Orengo, Winnie Odinga, and other party leaders at the briefing signals a unified front by dissenting members within the party. Their combined appearance reinforces opposition to the NEC’s decision and highlights a widening rift within ODM’s top leadership.
Political analysts say the statement by Babu Owino is likely to intensify discussions within the party regarding internal democracy, rule-based governance, and adherence to constitutional procedures. They argue that the unfolding dispute could have far-reaching implications for ODM’s cohesion and public image, especially with the 2027 General Election approaching. The situation remains fluid, with no official response yet from the NEC regarding Babu Owino’s condemnation. Party insiders suggest that further meetings and consultations may be necessary to resolve the dispute and prevent long-term damage to the party’s unity and electoral prospects.
Babu Owino concluded his remarks by urging all ODM leaders to respect the party constitution, uphold democratic norms, and prioritize the inter
