“Take the Helm, Sifuna" — Havi Urges Strong Leadership in ODM

 Havi argued that hesitation could lead to the party’s disintegration and division

It doesn't require hesitation. When the king is killed, even in combat or in illness, the heir apparent must prepare for coronation quickly," he said.

Havi insisted that swift leadership action was necessary to prevent ODM from losing its national character and influence.

"So yes, he must not hesitate in taking over the leadership of ODM.

 In fact, by now, the ODM should have conglomerated at Chungwa House, taking over the leadership of this party

Otherwise, the leadership of the party will continue disintegrating. It will continue the division and fragmentation.

 It will end up being a party domiciled in Siaya County alone," he added.

Havi's comments come amid growing discussions about the future of ODM and its leadership structure following its leader, Raila Odinga's death.

For instance, ODM Youth League member Kasmuel McOure issued a warning to individuals eyeing the political space left vacant.

 By Raila cautioning them against attempts to inherit the leadership position.

Speaking on Saturday, October 18, McOure insisted that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) now falls under the stewardship of Senator Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother.

McOure further noted that the ODM party remains strong and should continue under Oburu’s leadership for the foreseeable future.

On the other hand, Raila's younger sister, Kisumu Woman Rep Ruth Odinga, sent caution to the renegades in the ODM party.

Speaking during Raila's funeral  Ruth noted that her elder brother left the party with the direction to take long before his death.

She said it was Raila's wish that the party remains one and strong to forge alliances with other like-minded outfits.

"He told me the day before he passed on that ODM must be united and it must be strong. We cannot have groups within the party. 

 The party belongs to all of us," she said .The ODM party is currently under the stewardship of Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga.

 the party confirmed that the decision was made during a meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC), which unanimously agreed to have Oburu take up the leadership role in an acting capacity.