Former Raila Odinga aide Silas Jakakimba has declared his interest in the Suba North MP seat come 2027 elections days after joining the ruling United Democratic Movement.
Jakakimba broke the news on his X handle Thursday evening and exuded confidence that he will emerge victorious and clinch the seat currently occupied by Millie Odhiambo.
“It's doable, and in my world, whatever is doable, is achievable. God on our side. The people involved,” he said.
Jakakimba left ODM in March 2023 after an online altercation with Raila’s daughter, Winnie.
He followed it up months later with his resignation in July as the legal adviser to Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, a staunch Raila supporter.
When officially joining UDA on Tuesday, Jakakimba said he parted ways with ODM to support President William Ruto and his administration.
He said the decision to join UDA is a testament to the party's growing popularity in Nyanza and across the country.
"I intend to join the many Nyanza people who are now increasingly ready to mobilise, popularise and even contest for elections on the UDA platform," Jakakimba said.
"Joining UDA confirms my belief that the party is a national party with a national constituency and an even brighter future,” he added.
News about his newfound home was not, however, received well by some within the ODM party with Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai openly expressing disapproval of X.
Alai told Jakakimba that what awaits ODM defectors is humiliation at the ballot box courtesy of machinations by party loyalists.
“We don’t support any defection from ODM. ODM is our home. If you defect from ODM, we program our arsenals to defeat you,” Alai said.
“Silas Jakakimba is my long-time friend, brother and just a great guy but defecting from ODM is like poking a lion. We can’t entertain that,” he added.
Jakakimba responded in kind and advised Alai that he was ready for the challenge, but his team of challengers should equally prepare for defeat.
He challenged Alai to face him at the ballot.
“And please take up the button, Ja Nyando (one from Nyando)…it’s a race, but deploy the lungs only,” he said.
In his speech after being received in UDA by Secretary General Cleophas Malala, Jakakimba said it was time for him to move forward having served Raila for more than 19 years.
He, however, said his loyalty to democratic ideals and attendant principles of strong and accountable governance remained intact.
“That is the space where I’m today, politically. And, God- plus time, are on our side," he said.
