Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has called for unity among communities in Nyanza, Western and the Coast, dismissing claims that recent political differences have created hostility between Western Kenya and Nyanza.

Speaking during a church event attended by Siaya Governor James Orengo in Kisumu on Sunday, July 12, 2026, Sifuna said those who believed in the ideals championed by the late Raila Odinga should remain united despite emerging political differences.

“We have said that we must remain united. If you ever believed in the things that Baba used to believe in, we must all remain united,” Sifuna said.

“Na hatuachani! Hatuachani! Nyinyi watu wa Nyanza, nyinyi watu wa Western, wale wa Pwani, hata wakijaribu kuleta fitina gani, mimi naomba tubaki pamoja na tutembee safari hiyo,” he added.

ODM party disputes

Sifuna rejected claims that people from Western Kenya had turned against those from Nyanza, saying disputes within the party were being driven by individuals rather than entire communities.

“Mtu asiwadanganye ati kwa sababu ya ile vitu imefanyika, ati watu wa Western wanachukia watu wa Nyanza. Haiwezekani,” he said.

Sifuna acknowledged challenges within the party but maintained that they should not be interpreted as divisions between communities.

“Sisi, ile shida tuko nayo ndani ya chama, it is just individuals who are bringing problems to the party. But as a community, we know that you have always stood for justice. You have always stood for what is right, and we believe that we can continue to walk together,” he said.

Sifuna removal from ODM

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) formally removed Senator Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary-General following a party disciplinary process that endorsed recommendations of its internal dispute resolution committee.

Speaking on Monday, June 22, 2026, ODM interim Secretary General Catherine Omanyo said the decision followed a review conducted in line with the party constitution.

“The party’s internal dispute resolution committee that was constituted in accordance with Article 51-3-F of the party constitution heard and determined the complaint concerning Senator Edwin Watenya Sifuna in his capacity as the Secretary-General,” Omanyo said.

She added that the National Executive Committee (NEC) adopted the committee’s findings and recommendations without dissent.

“After going through the report and the findings… and Article 74 section 2 of the party constitution, the NEC unanimously resolved to adopt the committee’s recommendation and endorsed the removal from office of Senator Edwin Watenya Sifuna,” she said.