Silas Jakakimba, one-time aide to Raila Odinga, has urged for a strategic shift in the Azimio leader’s communication as he gears up his campaigns for the continental role.
As the government, led by President William Ruto, prepares to mount a continental campaign for the Africa Union Commission position, Jakakimba called on Odinga to maintain a distinct public messaging strategy.
Jakakimba, who served as Raila’s assistant and later as a senior adviser until their parting after the 2022 Presidential elections, asserts that the opposition leader’s messaging should focus less on his desire to remain actively involved in Kenya’s political landscape and more on adopting a soft and diplomatic tone.
“There is a crucial need for a balanced approach in Odinga’s public communications during this bid and It is imperative that his messaging targeting local audiences remains tempered and avoids heavy-handed expressions,” Jakakimba stated.
“There’s an urgent need for a very tempered balance in public comms from the former PM around and, during the window of this bid, intertwined with a fair share of soft and deliberate diplomatic posture,” Jakakimba stressed on the need for immediate shift in Raila’s approach.
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While speaking in Kibra on March 9, Raila affirmed his commitment to concurrently serve Africa and Kenya if appointed to the AU role.
In an address to Kibra residents, the ODM leader conveyed his dedication to ensuring proper functioning of affairs in Kenya while executing his responsibilities at the continental level.
“I will continue to ensure things are working as they should in Kenya, even if I secure the AU Commission Chairmanship,” Raila declared.
Despite their political differences, Jakakimba acknowledged Raila’s suitability for leadership roles on the African continent, citing his right personality, and established leadership profile.
He highlighted Raila’s enduring legacy at home as a champion of good governance and equity, emphasizing that the former Prime Minister has the potential to serve in various capacities beyond the AU Commission Chairmanship.
Jakakimba Exists ODM
In a letter dated March 17, 2023, Jakakimba formally resigned from the ODM party.
Notably he requested the removal of his name from the official membership register, marking the end of his association with ODM.
Jakakimba’s political journey with Raila dates back to 2004 when he served in the vibrant Liberal Democratic Party Youth League.
Over the years, their relationship evolved into both comradeship and a ‘near-son relationship,’ solidifying him as one of Raila’s most trusted aides.
Raila, recognizing his loyalty, appointed Jakakimba as his parliamentary personal assistant in the lead-up to the 2007 elections.
The bond persisted as he continued to serve as Raila’s personal assistant during his tenure as Prime Minister from 2007 to 2012.
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While departing ODM, Jakakimba pointed out the new constitution and the birth of devolution as key achievements he has attained together with the party.
He emphasized how Raila’s vision ushered in a new constitutional dispensation that placed devolution at the core of governance, leaving an indelible mark for generations to come.
He was a key advisor based at the Raila Odinga Secretariat, contributing to the strategic guidance of the former PM’s political endeavors.
Nonetheless, Jakakimba broke ranks with Raila soon after he lost the 2022 presidential poll to President William Ruto.
His support for Ruto was regarded as a betrayal by many supporters of the opposition chief even though he denied being a betrayer.
