Raila Odinga’s aide Silas Jakakimba quits ODM moments after party named Moses Kajwang’ as its flag bearer

Kenya: Silas Jakakimba, an aide to Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga, who was vying for the Homa Bay senatorial seat, has resigned.

Jakakimba resigned moments after ODM named Moses Kajwang, a brother to the late Senator Otieno Kajwang, as its flag-bearer in the February 12 by-election.

In a letter dated December 23, 2014, which The Standard has a copy, Jakakimba said, "I hereby tender my resignation as a member of the party with immediate effect. Kindly strike my name out of your register of members. Your urgent action in this matter shall be appreciated,".

He added, "I take this opportunity to thank the party and party leader Right Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga for the opportunity to serve the party over the years. I wish the party and the party leader all the best in all its endeavours."

He copied the letter to the Registrar of Political Parties. Earlier in the day, he had expressed dissatisfaction in the decision to give Kajwang the ticket.

After the announcement, he said, "They have made 'an announcement' but I reiterate that ?I am still ready and I will give a firm response and requisite direction to my supporters on or before December 27."

He added, "We had all believed that the people of Homa Bay County would have that cardinal opportunity to have a say in this process, but this was not possible due to reasons that were well explained by the board."