The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has condemned accusations by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) linking the State to the recent killing of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were, terming the claims as “irresponsible” and potentially divisive.
In a statement released on Saturday, UDA Homa Bay Secretary Silas Jakakimba urged political leaders to exercise restraint and allow investigative agencies to conclude their work. Jakakimba emphasized that both the national and county UDA leadership had already called for speedy and transparent investigations into the MP’s killing, reiterating their commitment to justice and accountability.
“It is on record that the UDA leadership has demanded thorough investigations. Political posturing at this stage only serves to divide the country and derail justice,” the statement read.
The response came after senior ODM figures, led by National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, publicly alleged that the State was complicit in the brutal shooting of the late MP. The leaders cited that Were had reported threats to his life on several occasions, but no protection was provided. They accused security agencies of negligence and warned of withdrawing from their cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration if no arrests are made.
Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang, MPs Millie Odhiambo, Opondo Kaluma, and other ODM leaders echoed similar sentiments during a visit to the late MP’s home in Kasipul. Kaluma noted that the future of the bipartisan government arrangement would depend on how the government handles the case.
Meanwhile, Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara and Teso North MP Okuu Kaunya urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to retrieve CCTV footage from the murder scene and act swiftly before the MP’s burial.
Were’s assassination last week shocked the nation, sparking concerns about rising political tensions. While ODM calls for urgent action, UDA insists on unity, peace, and due process. The DCI has launched investigations, and top security officials have promised a thorough, impartial probe to ensure justice is served.
As the political blame game intensifies, the country watches closely, hoping for answers and accountability.
