Nyakach parliamentary hopeful Jonathan Okoth Opande, widely known as Mullah, has strongly condemned the killing of Kasipul MP Sir Charles Ongondo Were, terming the act politically motivated and a grave threat to democratic processes.
Speaking on Thursday during a bursary disbursement event in Pap Onditi, Nyakach, Opande joined a chorus of national leaders denouncing the fatal shooting that occurred in Nairobi on Wednesday. He urged politicians and citizens alike to uphold peace and tolerance as the country heads toward the 2027 general election.
“What happened to Kasipul MP Ongondo Were should never happen to anyone,” said Opande. “This killing was politically instigated. Eliminating someone to take their seat is a dangerous miscalculation — only voters have the power to elect leaders.”
Opande, who contested but lost the Nyakach parliamentary seat in 2017 to the current MP Aduma Owuor, reiterated his intention to run again in 2027. He emphasized the need for non-violent political competition, noting that his past campaigns were conducted peacefully.
“I am still available and will seek your votes at the appropriate time,” he said.
At the same event, Opande distributed bursary cheques to 610 students drawn from Moro Secondary, Kogola Secondary, Ragen Secondary, Olwalo Mixed, and Olembo Boys High School. Many of the students had reportedly been sent home due to school fee arrears.
“Education is the great equalizer,” Opande said. “Coming from a humble background myself, I know it is education that opens doors. If elected, I will ensure that NG-CDF resources are distributed equitably to support every student in Nyakach.”
The aspirant also proposed the administrative division of Nyakach into North and South Sub-counties, citing insecurity and poor service delivery as challenges stemming from the area’s vastness. He pledged to lobby for the establishment of a Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), institutions of higher learning, and road projects that have long eluded the constituency.
Turning to national politics, Opande criticized DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa for what he termed “careless remarks” involving ODM leader Raila Odinga. He dismissed claims of tribal favoritism in government appointments, stating that the Luo community holds only two cabinet portfolios — Energy and Treasury.
“Appointments should be based on merit, not ethnicity,” he said. “We must move away from divisive tribal narratives and focus on building a unified, equitable country.”
As political temperatures begin to rise ahead of 2027, Opande has positioned himself as a voice for peace, development, and inclusive leadership in Nyakach.
