The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Mombasa on Tuesday morning proceeded without two of the party’s top officials — Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi.
According to a member of the NEC, Sifuna sent his apologies for not attending the meeting but did not provide further details. Osotsi, who also missed the session, cited parliamentary duties as the reason for his absence.
“I did not travel to Mombasa as I am currently in Nairobi attending to my Senate responsibilities,” said Osotsi, who serves as the Senator for Vihiga County.
Party insiders suggested that Sifuna’s absence may be linked to growing tensions within ODM, amid reports that some supporters had been mobilised around the meeting.
The gathering comes at a time when internal discussions have reportedly intensified over possible leadership changes, including speculation about the potential appointment of Busia Governor Paul Otuoma to a senior party role.
Sources within the party indicated that some members have called for the NEC to deliberate on Sifuna’s position, while others have warned that such a move could damage ODM’s public image and unity.
ODM National Treasurer Timothy Bosire downplayed the reported divisions, describing them as part of the party’s democratic culture. “We have always agreed to disagree honourably. This is part of our internal democracy,” Bosire said ahead of the meeting.
During the closed-door session, officials were reportedly presented with various scenarios and the potential implications of any decision to alter the party’s leadership structure. Members were reminded of the need to adhere strictly to the ODM constitution in handling internal disputes.
The NEC meeting, which brought together senior party officials and regional representatives, was expected to address key organisational matters and chart ODM’s political strategy ahead of upcoming national engagements.
