Speaking during a radio interview on Sunday, April 11, 2026, Omanyo maintained that Sifuna’s fate lies squarely in his own hands, emphasizing that loyalty to the party’s position remains the key requirement for any leader holding a senior office.
According to her, ODM is a structured political outfit guided by collective decisions, and leaders are expected to publicly align with agreed positions.
She noted that while the party allows open debate internally, once a resolution is reached, it becomes binding to all members, especially those in leadership roles.
“It is his choice whether he wants to remain in that position or not. The minimum requirement is that he must toe the party line,” Omanyo stated, adding that there is no personal grudge against the Nairobi senator.
Omanyo was quick to defend ODM’s inclusivity, arguing that the party does not expel members even when they take divergent political paths.
“It is his choice whether he wants to remain in that position or not. The minimum requirement is that he must toe the party line,” Omanyo stated, adding that there is no personal grudge against the Nairobi senator.
Omanyo was quick to defend ODM’s inclusivity, arguing that the party does not expel members even when they take divergent political paths.
She cited President William Ruto as an example, noting that despite his departure from ODM years ago, he is still regarded as a life member of the party.
Her remarks come at a time when Sifuna has faced mounting criticism from sections of ODM leadership over alleged absenteeism and failure to consistently articulate the party’s official stance on key national issues.
Her remarks come at a time when Sifuna has faced mounting criticism from sections of ODM leadership over alleged absenteeism and failure to consistently articulate the party’s official stance on key national issues.
The dispute has sparked debate about internal discipline and the role of the Secretary General as the party’s chief spokesperson.
Omanyo reiterated that the Secretary General’s office carries the responsibility of communicating unified party positions rather than advancing personal political ambitions. She suggested that Sifuna still has a strong chance of retaining his seat if he re-aligns with the party’s expectations and reaffirms his commitment to its agenda.
“There is a big chance of him staying on, but he must remember that as SG, he speaks for the party. What the party decides is final,” she explained.
Addressing the broader political landscape, Omanyo dismissed claims that Sifuna’s position depends on aligning with popular political slogans such as “Tuma Tu” or “Wantam.” Instead, she pointed to a more nuanced approach within ODM, rooted in strategic cooperation and long-term planning.
She referenced the guidance of the late Raila Odinga, who had emphasized the importance of national stability over political rivalry.
Omanyo reiterated that the Secretary General’s office carries the responsibility of communicating unified party positions rather than advancing personal political ambitions. She suggested that Sifuna still has a strong chance of retaining his seat if he re-aligns with the party’s expectations and reaffirms his commitment to its agenda.
“There is a big chance of him staying on, but he must remember that as SG, he speaks for the party. What the party decides is final,” she explained.
Addressing the broader political landscape, Omanyo dismissed claims that Sifuna’s position depends on aligning with popular political slogans such as “Tuma Tu” or “Wantam.” Instead, she pointed to a more nuanced approach within ODM, rooted in strategic cooperation and long-term planning.
She referenced the guidance of the late Raila Odinga, who had emphasized the importance of national stability over political rivalry.
According to Omanyo, ODM’s current collaboration with the Kenya Kwanza administration is aimed at fostering unity and stabilizing the country, rather than forming a permanent political alliance.
“This is not about slogans. It is about stabilising the nation. That cooperation does not necessarily extend beyond 2027,” she clarified.
“This is not about slogans. It is about stabilising the nation. That cooperation does not necessarily extend beyond 2027,” she clarified.
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