Siaya: Youth in Siaya county have expressed their support for the expulsion of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, citing allegations of internal sabotage.
According to Kenya News Agency, the youth voiced their accusations in Bondo town, claiming that Sifuna was allegedly being manipulated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta to undermine ODM from within. The ODM National Executive Council had removed Sifuna from his position on February 11, 2026, citing indiscipline and breach of protocol. He was replaced by Busia Women Representative Catherine Omanyo. However, the Political Parties Dispute Tribunal issued temporary orders to block the gazettement of Sifuna’s ouster, with a full hearing scheduled for March.
Peter Odhiambo, Chairperson of the Nyanza region youth progressive movement, led the accusations against Sifuna, criticizing him for allegedly using the linda mwananchi rallies to tarnish ODM’s image by inviting officials from rival political parties. Odhiambo questioned Sifuna and Babu Owino’s intentions, asking what their ultimate goal was.
Odhiambo further emphasized the youth’s rejection of returning to street demonstrations, known as maandamanos, which he said have historically cost lives in the region. Instead, the youth pledged their allegiance to ODM party leader Oburu Oginga and chairperson Gladys Wanga, expressing confidence in their leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.
The youth also expressed support for the broad-based government arrangement signed between President William Ruto and the late Raila Odinga, which was founded on a 10-point agenda. Criticism was directed at Governor James Orengo for prioritizing divisive politics over the county’s development needs, leading to poor infrastructure and job scarcity.
Juliet Adhiambo Okelo refuted claims that youth in Siaya demand payments to attend the upcoming linda ground rally, stating that their participation is driven by loyalty to the party. She dismissed remarks by Suba South MP Omondi Caroli, who is aligned with Sifuna, as misguided and encouraged a strong turnout for the Saturday event.
