Former aide to ODM leader Raila Odinga, Silas Jakakimba, has broken his silence, sharply criticizing politicians he accuses of fueling division following the murder of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Jakakimba, now the Secretary General of President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in Homa Bay County, expressed disappointment over what he termed “reckless and inflammatory” statements linking the killing to UDA and the State.
He urged leaders to exercise restraint and allow investigative agencies to do their work.
“The escalating blame game is unhelpful and risks destabilizing our communities,” Jakakimba said. “We must resist the temptation to politicize this tragic loss.”
Tensions ran high over the weekend after ODM leaders threatened to pull out of the broad-based government arrangement unless the State arrested and prosecuted those behind the killing.
Led by ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, the leaders accused the government of failing to protect Were, who had reportedly warned police of threats to his life.
“We did not sign a political deal for assassinations,” Wanga declared during a tense press conference. “The MoU with Kenya Kwanza was meant to uplift Kenyans, not harm them. We want answers.”
Wanga challenged Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to publicly explain what measures, if any, were taken after Were’s plea for protection.She alleged that the killing was a calculated move to undermine Raila Odinga, ODM, and herself as a close political ally of the slain
MP.Jakakimba, however, dismissed the claims as politically motivated and urged leaders to stop “stoking flames of suspicion” without evidence.
“It is on record that UDA leaders, both nationally and locally, have unequivocally condemned this heinous act and demanded swift investigations,” he said. “We appeal for calm and unity in Homa Bay County as state agencies pursue justice.”
Jakakimba, who has declared interest in the Suba North parliamentary seat, emphasized that all political parties—including ODM and UDA—have a constitutional right to operate freely across Kenya’s 47 counties.
“Kenya’s multiparty democracy must be protected from intolerance and irresponsible rhetoric,” he stated. “Let us prioritize peace, tolerance, and development over divisive politics.
”He called on leaders to “prime the spirit of individual responsibility” and focus on fostering a political environment conducive to improving livelihoods, advancing development, and promoting cohesion.
As investigations into Were’s murder continue, the political temperature in Homa Bay remains high, with residents and leaders alike demanding answers—and justice.
polycarp ochieng