The Thursday, November 27, vote saw DCP’s David Warui, backed by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, declared the winner after garnering 2,282 votes.
Independent candidate John Kimanzi followed with 1,956 votes, while ODM’s Michael Ouma Majua finished third, a result that has left supporters questioning ODM’s strategy and leadership in Nairobi.
As Nairobi’s most senior ODM official, fingers are now being pointed at Sifuna, with claims that he failed to lead the charge in rallying voters in the capital.
Political blogger and Broad-Based coalition activist Kasmuel McOure openly criticised him, saying ODM cannot continue operating under leaders who “mislead the public” while rivals are actively expanding their ground game. He added:
“Nairobi, where we failed to deliver a single ward seat that was well within our reach… It was a complicated ward, but not impossible.”
McOure accused unnamed “duplicitous actors” of undermining the party’s efforts from within, sentiments echoed by several grassroots ODM supporters who say the party is losing touch with ground realities in Nairobi’s informal settlements, once its stronghold.
A section of netizens has also slammed the senator, with many seemingly expressing dissatisfaction with the party's performance in the city.
Criticism has also been building over Sifuna’s recent remarks suggesting that ODM shouldn't work with Kenya Kwanza on national matters.
Some have even called for his replacement as the party’s SG, arguing that a fresh voice is needed to reinvigorate ODM’s urban presence.
Others are questioning whether the result reflects a deeper realignment in Nairobi politics.
Analysts note that Gachagua’s involvement, despite his recent political troubles, may signal a strengthening of Mount Kenya influence in Nairobi’s Eastlands voting blocs.
An aspiring senatorial candidate told local news outlets that the defeat “raises questions about ODM’s mobilisation capability under Sifuna,” adding that the party’s messaging has looked “confused and reactive” in recent months.
However, senior party figures have pushed back against the growing pressure. ODM party leader Oburu Oginga recently dismissed calls for Sifuna’s ouster, urging unity and insisting that the SG remains central to ODM’s organisational structure during the transition from Raila’s leadership dominance.
Still, insiders admit that the by-election loss has amplified unease over the party’s preparedness for the 2027 polls.
Nairobi, long perceived as ODM turf, is increasingly competitive, with Kenya Kwanza and newly formed outfits like DCP aggressively targeting urban constituencies.
Grassroots organisers in Kariobangi North told reporters that voter turnout for ODM was hurt by internal wrangles and last-minute campaign confusion, problems they say must be addressed immediately if the party hopes to retain influence in the capital.
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