Migori Senator Eddy Oketch has stepped back from a contentious motion seeking to de-whip and expel Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, opting instead for alternative dispute resolution measures.
In a letter dated January 6, 2026, law firm Aguko, Osman & Company Advocates, representing Senator Oketch, announced the withdrawal of the motion that had been filed just a day earlier on January 5.
The decision, the letter explained, followed consultations with party leader and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga and was influenced by the legacy of the party’s founding leader, the late Raila Odinga, who prioritized dialogue even with his fiercest opponents.
“Following wide consultations with the Party Leader, Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, and with utmost respect to the spirit of the founding Party Leader the late Raila Amollo Odinga, who embraced dialogue even with his fiercest enemies as the most preferred method of dispute resolution, we have received further instructions from our client,” the letter stated.
While withdrawing the motion, the advocates noted that legitimate concerns remain regarding Nairobi Senator Sifuna’s conduct. The letter highlighted alleged breaches and offensive remarks made by Sifuna against the party and its members but clarified that punitive measures would not be pursued at this time.
Instead, the party intends to invoke Article 16(1)(g) of the ODM Constitution, which empowers the party leader to facilitate amicable dispute resolution through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
“The Party Leader is therefore implored to exercise the said powers in order to protect both the Party and its members who have been victims of the wanton attacks which formed the subject of the complaint,” the letter added.
This development signals a significant de-escalation of internal tensions within the ODM, as the party leadership prioritizes reconciliation and dialogue over punitive action against one of its most vocal leaders.
