The decision was made on February 11 during a National Executive Committee meeting held in Mombasa. Party officials said the move followed concerns about his conduct and was in line with the party constitution.
Catherine Omanyo, the Busia Woman Representative and Deputy Secretary General, was named acting SG.
Her appointment took effect immediately as the party prepared to reorganize its leadership. The decision exposed growing tension within the party over its direction and alliances under Raila Odinga.
Sifuna rejected the decision within hours. He described the meeting as irregular and said he was never given a fair hearing.
He insisted he remains the legitimate Secretary General elected by party members. He accused some leaders of trying to silence his stand on accountability and internal democracy.
The senator moved to the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal seeking urgent orders. On February 12 the tribunal issued interim orders stopping the implementation of his removal.
It also barred the Registrar of Political Parties from gazetting the changes. The case will be mentioned later this month as both sides file responses.
While the legal fight gathered pace a dramatic scene unfolded at Nyayo National Stadium on February 14.
Thousands of fans had gathered for the HSBC World Sevens rugby tournament. As Kenya’s Shujaa and Lionesses battled on the pitch a section of the crowd began chanting Sifuna’s name.
The chants grew louder and spread across the stands. Videos shared online showed young fans waving and shouting in support of the senator. What started as a sports celebration quickly turned into a moment of political expression.
Many youths see Sifuna as a fearless voice who speaks without compromise. His past defense of civil liberties and firm criticism of political deals has earned him loyalty among young voters. Supporters argue that the stadium chants prove his influence goes beyond party offices.
ODM leaders now face pressure as the dispute plays out in court and in public spaces. Whether the energy seen at Nyayo signals a wider shift in Kenya’s politics remains uncertain. For now the senator’s battle has captured national attention and stirred debate across the country.
