Senior Counsel Nelson Havi has sharply criticised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), describing the party as a “dead cow” following the disruption that brought its Jacaranda Grounds rally in Nairobi to an abrupt end.
In a statement reacting to the incident, Havi used a livestock metaphor to suggest that individuals who had benefited from the party should abandon it and seek opportunities elsewhere.
“ODM is a dead cow. The ticks that have been sucking its blood should drop down, crawl on the grass and climb up the next cow,” he said.
His remarks came a day after an ODM gathering at Jacaranda Grounds descended into confusion, with unidentified individuals taking over the main dais and grabbing the microphone as party leaders were introducing themselves.
The interruption sparked panic among leaders and supporters, several of whom scrambled for safety as proceedings broke down. One of the individuals who seized the microphone was heard telling the crowd, “Msitoroke,” meaning “Do not run”.
The rally had been organised to mark the climax of the party’s month-long Mwezi wa Baba commemorations in honour of its late leader, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who died on October 15, 2025.
The event brought together senior political figures, including Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and Minority Leader Junet Mohamed.
Reports indicated that tensions had emerged around access to the podium, with some aspirants reportedly facing resistance after arriving with security personnel. The circumstances surrounding the disruption, including the identity and motive of those who took over the stage, had not been established.
The incident unfolded as ODM continued to grapple with differences over its political direction and cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration ahead of the 2027 General Election.