Siaya County Governor James Orengo has cautioned that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) risks collapsing if it expels its outspoken Secretary-General, Edwin Sifuna.
Sifuna is among several ODM leaders who have publicly opposed the emerging broad-based government arrangement between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. His stance has reportedly irked some senior party officials who are now threatening to expel him for his dissent.
Speaking on Wednesday, Orengo warned that such a move would severely damage the party’s unity and credibility. He described Sifuna as one of the most vibrant and capable officials ODM has ever had.
“In terms of party leadership, ODM stands out because it has a visible and effective secretary-general. If you were asked to name the secretary-generals of other parties, it would probably take you a while to recall them. Sifuna is an exceptional leader, and losing him would be a great setback. He brings dynamism and energy that many parties lack,” Orengo said.
The governor further argued that Sifuna’s opposition to the broad-based government does not justify disciplinary action.
According to him, ODM was founded on principles of democracy and open debate—values that should allow for differences in opinion within the party.
“ODM is not a praise-and-worship movement. It is a political party that embraces honesty and constructive criticism. Having leaders who can speak truth to power, even when the party is partly in government, is what makes ODM strong,” Orengo added.
His remarks come amid growing tension within ODM over its cooperation with President Ruto’s administration, with some members warning that suppressing dissent could erode the party’s democratic foundation.
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