Gladys Wanga Dispels Rumours of Sifuna’s Impending Expulsion From ODM
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Chairperson Gladys Wanga has moved to quell speculation over the possible expulsion of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from the party, dismissing claims that his recent absence from a key party meeting or his divergent political views could trigger disciplinary action.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 13, during an interview on Ramogi TV, Wanga described the reports as misleading, reiterating that ODM remains a democratic outfit that accommodates differing opinions among its members. Her remarks come amid growing debate within the party over its “broad-based” political engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration, a position that has drawn mixed reactions from senior ODM figures.
Wanga emphasised that expressing an alternative view within the party does not amount to misconduct and should not be misconstrued as grounds for expulsion.
“ODM is a democratic party. Anyone at the party is allowed to have their own opinion,” Wanga said, stressing that internal debate is part of the party’s political culture. She added that disciplinary mechanisms only apply once the party has reached a collective and binding decision.
Addressing calls from some quarters for Sifuna’s removal, the ODM chairperson questioned the basis of such demands, noting that no formal complaint or violation of party rules had been raised against the senator.
“Anyone in the party is allowed to have their opinion, but once the party makes a binding decision, then it should be followed. We are not chasing anyone away from the party. What has Sifuna done wrong to be sent away?” she posed.
Speculation around Sifuna’s position in the party intensified following his absence from a recent ODM Central Committee meeting, alongside that of Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. However, Wanga sought to clarify the circumstances surrounding the absences, urging party members and the public to avoid drawing premature conclusions.
On Osotsi’s absence, Wanga explained that the senator had formally sought permission after travelling to South Africa on official parliamentary duty.
“I have spoken to him several times while he has been in South Africa. He told me he would be coming back this week. He is on official duty and cannot suspend his journey to attend the meeting,” she said.
Turning to Sifuna’s case, Wanga revealed that the ODM Secretary General had also communicated his inability to attend the meeting, citing unavoidable travel challenges.
“Sifuna also sent an apology saying he missed his flight, so we cannot do a follow-up on that because it is something that happens to anyone,” she explained.
Wanga further dismissed claims that the absence of the two lawmakers had disrupted party business, noting that the Central Committee meeting proceeded as scheduled after attaining the required quorum.
“As long as the meeting has a quorum, it can proceed,” she added, underscoring that party operations were not compromised.
The clarification comes at a time when ODM is navigating internal realignments following the death of its long-time leader Raila Odinga, with debates ongoing over the party’s future direction and leadership structure. Analysts say the differing views within ODM reflect broader conversations about opposition politics, cooperation with government, and positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Despite the tensions, Wanga’s remarks appeared aimed at projecting unity and stability within the party, signalling that ODM intends to resolve its internal debates through dialogue rather than punitive measures.
Party insiders say discussions on the broad-based arrangement and the party’s long-term strategy are expected to continue in upcoming meetings, as ODM seeks to balance internal democracy with collective decision-making.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, ODM leaders have repeatedly called for calm and cohesion, warning that public infighting could undermine the party’s influence nationally.
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Gladys Wanga Dispels Rumours of Sifuna’s Impending Expulsion From ODM
