Ruto planning to block Babu and Sifuna from ODM NGC: Ngogoyo
By Faith Lagat, February 9, 2026Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo has said President William Ruto intends to weaken the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and prevent key party leaders from attending critical meetings.
Ngogoyo, in an interview with a local TV station on February 9, 2026, said President William Ruto intends to weaken the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and influence its internal processes.
“What I can tell ODM is that William Ruto will make sure that party goes down; that is his agenda,” he said.
He added that part of the strategy involves ensuring Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino are blocked from attending the upcoming National Governing Council (NGC) meeting.
Ngogoyo also distanced himself from Ruto’sUnited Democratic Alliance (UDA), declaring that he would not run on its ticket.
“Personally, I will not vie on a UDA ticket as I do not believe in their philosophy,” he said, criticising the government for abandoning pre-election promises.
Leadership disputes deepen
The remarks come amid growing turbulence within ODM following the death of long-time party leader Raila Odinga. Several party members have intensified calls for leadership changes, with Secretary General Edwin Sifuna emerging as a focal point.
Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai, in a January 11 X post, urged that Sifuna and other officials be removed at the next National Delegates Conference (NDC).
“We must remove Sifuna and other fools at the NDC and during the day,” he wrote.
Similar calls have come from Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma and senior party figures, including John Mbadi, who have questioned Sifuna’s continued leadership of the party and Senate positions.
Migori Senator Eddy Oketch urged acting party leader Oburu Oginga to convene the NDC to resolve the escalating disputes. Analysts say the internal debates reflect wider tensions over party direction in a post-Raila era.
ODM rallies support amid external pressures
ODM hardliners have rejected what they view as external interference. At a “Linda Mwananchi” rally in Busia on February 8, Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi led supporters in opposing any merger with UDA.
“Here in Busia, we have come out to protect the ODM party,” he said, accusing Ruto of attempting a backdoor takeover.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, speaking alongside Osotsi and Sifuna, emphasised the party’s independence ahead of the 2027 elections. “Nobody will force us into a government we do not agree with,” he said.
The rally drew hundreds of orange-waving supporters, highlighting ODM’s stronghold in Western Kenya despite internal disputes and external pressures.