Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has won a significant legal battle after the PPDT ruled that ODM violated his right to a fair hearing in the process that led to his removal as the party’s Secretary General. 
By Fredrick Kioko,
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has won a significant legal battle after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) ruled that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) violated his right to a fair hearing in the process that led to his removal as the party’s Secretary General.
In its determination, the tribunal found that the party failed to accord Sifuna due process before making the decision, rendering the move procedurally flawed. As a result, the tribunal set aside the resolution that sought to remove him from the influential party position.
However, the ruling stopped short of permanently barring ODM from taking action against the senator. The tribunal held that the party retains the authority to initiate fresh disciplinary proceedings, provided they are conducted in strict compliance with the party constitution, internal regulations, and the law.
The decision is seen as a major boost for Sifuna, who has recently found himself at odds with sections of the ODM leadership over political and party matters. It also serves as a reminder to political parties of the need to uphold due process and fair administrative action when dealing with internal disciplinary issues.
The ruling is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing power dynamics within ODM as the party navigates internal differences ahead of the 2027 General Election.
