Hon. Catherine Omanyo has stated that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Constitution does not provide for automatic succession to the Deputy Party Leaders in the event of a vacancy in the party leadership.
In her clarification, Omanyo referenced Article 17 of the ODM Constitution, explaining that Deputy Party Leaders in charge of Policy, Strategy, or Operations are mandated to deputise the Party Leader and assist in carrying out official duties in his or her absence. However, she emphasised that this role is limited to temporary and administrative functions.
According to her interpretation, the deputies are empowered to handle day-to-day operations only on an interim basis. The formal authority to appoint an acting or interim Party Leader rests with the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
Omanyo further noted that the NEC can make such decisions on its own initiative, particularly in situations where conducting an election is not feasible due to timing or logistical constraints.
Her remarks come amid heightened discussions within ODM regarding leadership structure and succession, underscoring the importance of adhering strictly to constitutional provisions to maintain order and unity within the party.
