The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party financier Silas Jakakimba has officially joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
In a statement after joining the ruling party, Jakakimba said the party led by President William Ruto was growing popularity in the Nyanza region, hence he was ready to join the wave.
“Joining UDA affirms 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 mobilize, popularize and even contest for elections on the UDA platform. Joining UDA confirms my belief that the party is a national party with a national constituency and an even brighter future in the path of grounding and consolidating democratic gains in our years-old quest for good governance in the Joint Republic. Needless to say, the UDA is the largest party by count in the county assemblies nationally, in the Senate, in the National Assembly and lastly — the party that delivered the presidency,” he stated.
“Like many people who have worked for HE Odinga for many years — in my case for more than 19 years, there seems to be a belief that loyalty to the centre must remain a lifetime role. 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 a strong and accountable governance. That is the space where I am today, politically,” he added.
Jakakimba, who vied for Homa Bay Senatorial seat unsuccessfully in 2022 resigned from ODM in March 2023, after serving the opposition leader since 2004.
“Now, I intend to join him (Ruto), and the UDA formation, to further that mandate and deliver ‘The Plan’ to the people of Kenya. Where I come from, the great Kavirondo Belt of Nyanza region, the delivery of The Plan is massively ongoing. And we can see it all across the country. Today, I join the UDA formation willingly, aware of the work ahead. I declare to the party secretary-general that I am available on the instant for any assignment,” Jakakimba added.
UDA party secretary general Cleophas Malala welcomed Jakakimba to UDA, praising his experience in the political arena with Raila.
“The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party is delighted to receive Mr Silas Jakakimba in its fold. Mr Jakakimba brings with him a wealth of experience, having served as a long-standing aide to former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Rails Odinga. His decision to align himself with the UDA Party is testament to our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive political landscape in Kenya,” Malala stated.
