Ex-Raila Aide Joins Ruto's UDA Party

Silas Jakakimba, a former aide of Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, formally joined President William Ruto’s United Democratic Party (UDA) on Tuesday, March 26.

Jakakimba, who defected from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, was received by UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala at the party's headquarters in Nairobi.

“Jakakimba brings with him a wealth of experience, having served as a long-standing aide to former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga.

Silas Jakakimba received by UDA Secretary-General, Cleophas Malala at the party headquarters in Nairobi on March 26, 2024. /CLEOPHAS MALALA

"His decision to align himself with the UDA Party is a testament to our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive political landscape in Kenya,” said Malalah.

The UDA SG further called on party members as well as its supporters to embrace Jakakimba and work together with him.

On his part, Jakakimba remarked that joining UDA affirms the party's growing popularity in Nyanza as well as across the country.

He called for loyalty to democratic ideals, a matter he termed of utmost importance given the role he served in Raila's camp for more than 19 years.

“It is necessary that moving forward, all democrats agree that it is more important and urgent, to remain eternally loyal to democratic ideals and attendant principles of strong and accountable governance. That is the space where I am today, politically,” said Jakakimba.

The former Raila aide also commended President Ruto for supporting the former Prime Minister’s bid to become the African Union Council Chairperson.

"I have severally, in the past year, expressed my strong belief that Baba needs to step back from the rigours of local politics and focus on a continental assignment," he said.

"Jakom has done his bit locally, has had his chances and even within ODM, leave alone Azimio, the discussion now is: 'Who next?"

Before his defection, Jakakimba had also resigned as the legal adviser to Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga in July 2023, just nine months into the position.

He was also provoked to resign from the post in March 2023 by insults from Raila's daughter, Winnie Odinga.

Jakakimba is eyeing the Suba North parliamentary seat in the 2027 elections and intends to challenge the incumbent MP, Millie Odhiambo, who is presently serving her second term.

Silas Jakakimba and other delegates meet UDA Secretary-General, Cleophas Malala at the party headquarters in Nairobi on March 26, 2024. /CLEOPHAS MALALA