Siaya Governor James Orengo has come out strongly in defence of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, dismissing growing attacks from a section of party members questioning Sifuna’s authority and loyalty to the party, some of whom have accused him of plotting to sell the Orange party.

Speaking on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, during the burial ceremony of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, Kakamega County, Orengo said the party’s leadership structure is clear in law and practice, insisting that Sifuna remains the legitimate Secretary General and official spokesperson of the party.

“Mimi ninatambua Sifuna as the Secretary General of ODM. Hapo awali, Raila declared that the spokesperson of the party is Edwin Sifuna; that is the reality in law,” Orengo stated.

The veteran lawyer and constitutionalist added that attempts to sideline or intimidate Sifuna amount to undermining the party’s own constitution and long-standing principles of internal democracy.

“Kwahiyo nataka niwajulishe kuwa Sifuna yuko ODM kama vile Orengo yuko ODM,” he added.

Democracy

Orengo also raised concerns over attempts to kill democracy by swallowing political parties. He called on Kenyans to reject any attempts to kill political parties so that democracy can prevail.

“Political parties are being swallowed one by one. They have swallowed one of my friends, whom I respect so much, Musalia Mudavadi. Chama chake kimemezwa. Ford Kenya kimeanza kutafunwa polepole, na ODM kimeanza kumezwa. Hatuezi kubali, democracy must prevail,” he said.

He also urged Kenyans to stop claiming that they are in government simply because one or two leaders from their community are appointed to serve in the government, especially as Cabinet Secretaries.

Growing rift within ODM

Orengo’s remarks come at a time when ODM is grappling with internal disagreements over its political direction, particularly following cooperation between the party and President William Ruto’s administration.

Sifuna, who is also the Nairobi Senator, has been openly critical of the government and vocal about what he terms attempts to dilute ODM’s opposition role. His stance has earned him praise from some party supporters but sharp criticism from others who accuse him of defying collective party positions.

Several ODM leaders allied to the cooperation framework with the Kenya Kwanza government have recently taken aim at Sifuna, questioning his public statements, claiming that he is among those plotting to sell the party.

In his defence, Sifuna has argued that those yapping the most are the ones planning to sell the party to President Ruto.

Sifuna and Orengo have previously vowed to ensure the ODM party is not sold to Ruto.