Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has alleged that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is preparing a motion to remove him and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi from prominent Senate committee roles, intensifying an ongoing dispute between the lawmakers and their party.

Speaking during a television interview on July 28, 2026, Sifuna revealed that the motion would strip Osotsi of his chairmanship of the Senate County Public Investments and Special Funds Committee and remove him from the Senate County Public Accounts Committee.

Proposed Reassignments

Sifuna stated that he is likely to be reassigned to the Senate Fisheries Committee, a move he described as perceived by some ODM leaders as a demotion. However, he expressed a positive outlook on the new assignment, citing an opportunity to gain knowledge in agriculture, fisheries, and the blue economy ahead of future roles.

He did not provide details on the upcoming assignments he referenced.

Context of Party Fallout

The claims come shortly after ODM officially removed Sifuna as the party's Secretary-General following disciplinary proceedings. On June 22, 2026, ODM Interim Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo announced that the party’s Internal Dispute Resolution Committee had ruled against Sifuna, leading to his removal, which was subsequently endorsed by the National Executive Committee and recognized by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.

Earlier in the month, Sifuna was also replaced as Senate Deputy Minority Whip by Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, marking further reductions in his parliamentary influence.

Impact on Senate Oversight

The committees in question play critical roles in parliamentary oversight:

  • The Senate County Public Accounts Committee monitors the use of public funds by county governments.
  • The Senate County Public Investments and Special Funds Committee supervises county investments and special funds.

Removal from these committees would diminish Sifuna and Osotsi’s oversight capacity.

Party Relations and Future Prospects

Sifuna described the developments as a clear sign that ODM leadership intends to sideline him and his allies. When asked about his party allegiance, he stated he has not decided to leave ODM, insisting the party is pushing them out.

He has been a prominent critic within ODM, particularly over the party’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration, which has strained his relationship with party leadership.

As of publication, ODM had not responded publicly to Sifuna’s allegations, and no motion regarding the Senate committee reshuffle had been formally introduced.