A fresh change was made. Edwin Sifuna was removed. Eddy Oketch was appointed.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has reshuffled its Senate leadership, removing Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as Deputy Senate Minority Whip and replacing him with Migori Senator Eddy Oketch.
The decision was announced in the Senate on Thursday, marking another significant shift in Sifuna’s role within the party.
Change Was Confirmed
The announcement was made. A formal letter was received.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi told lawmakers he had received official communication from Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo confirming the leadership change.
“By a letter dated July 16, 2026, I received correspondence from the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Stewart Madzayo, regarding the removal of Senator Edwin Sifuna as the Deputy Senate Minority Whip and the election of Senator Eddy Gicheru Oketch to replace him,” Kingi said.
The appointment of Oketch took effect immediately.
Rules Were Followed
The process was explained. Standing Orders were cited.
Speaker Kingi said the decision complied with Senate Standing Orders governing the appointment and removal of minority leadership.
He noted that the communication was accompanied by minutes from a minority party meeting held on July 15, together with a signed list of senators supporting the resolution.
“The minutes indicate that a resolution was passed to remove the Deputy Senate Minority Whip, Senator Edwin Sifuna,” Kingi told the House.
Transition Was Marked Calmly
A cordial exchange was seen. Hands were shaken.
Moments after the announcement, Sifuna and Oketch exchanged a handshake inside the Senate chamber, a gesture that appeared to reflect a smooth handover.
As Deputy Senate Minority Whip, Oketch will assist in coordinating Minority business, mobilising senators for House proceedings and supporting the Minority leadership in managing parliamentary affairs.
Another Senior Role Was Lost
The latest move followed earlier changes. Another position had already been vacated. Sifuna’s removal comes only a week after he ceased serving as ODM Secretary General.
On July 9, the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties updated its official records following a resolution by ODM’s National Executive Committee.
The party said the decision was linked to allegations of gross misconduct and Sifuna’s opposition to ODM’s cooperation agreement with President William Ruto’s administration.
Sifuna has previously voiced views that differed from sections of the party leadership on the cooperation arrangement.
Political Focus Will Remain
Attention is now expected to shift to how the latest leadership changes will influence ODM’s strategy in the Senate and the party’s wider political direction as preparations continue for the 2027 General Election.
About the Author
