Orengo Blames Ruto for ODM Crisis, Defends Edwin Sifuna

Siaya Governor James Orengo has accused President William Ruto of interfering with the internal affairs of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying the President is behind the growing divisions within the opposition party.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Orengo urged President Ruto to stop involving himself in ODM matters, insisting that the ruling administration should respect the independence of political parties.

“The problem in ODM is President Ruto. We are asking him to leave ODM alone,” Orengo said, adding that he had previously warned the President against meddling in party politics.

The Siaya governor claimed that President Ruto had allegedly convened meetings involving ODM members while sidelining key party officials, including ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and National Organising Secretary Godfrey Otsotsi. He cited meetings reportedly held in Kilgoris and at State House as examples of such interference.

Orengo further alleged that the President had effectively taken control of the opposition party by influencing its internal processes and decision-making structures.

During the same press conference, held in support of the embattled ODM Secretary General, Orengo insisted that Edwin Sifuna remains the legitimate spokesperson of the party.

“The Secretary General of ODM is Edwin Sifuna,” Orengo stated, noting that Sifuna has served the party for nearly ten years and successfully managed its affairs during the 2017 and 2022 elections without any public criticism from party leader Raila Odinga.

He dismissed attempts by the ODM National Executive Council (NEC) to weaken Sifuna’s authority, arguing that the NEC lacks the national mandate to question his leadership. According to Orengo, Sifuna continues to represent and speak for ODM.

On February 11, 2026, the ODM NEC met in Mombasa to discuss Sifuna’s conduct and later resolved to remove him from office. The council appointed Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo as the new Secretary General, promoting her from Deputy Secretary General.

Sifuna and his allies within ODM, who oppose a possible coalition between UDA and ODM, recently launched the “Linda Mwananchi” campaign, which attracted large crowds during its visit to Busia.

Despite his removal, Sifuna and his supporters have vowed to use internal party mechanisms to challenge the decision, with the possibility of seeking legal action if necessary.