Ugenya MP David Ochieng Flees Funeral Amidst Chaos
Ugenya – Ugenya legislator David Ochieng was compelled to abruptly end his speech and leave a funeral in his constituency, which was also attended by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The event was marred by violence, resulting in injuries and damage to property.
According to Kenya News Agency, the chaos erupted following a confrontation between supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and those of David Ochieng, who recently left the Azimio la Umoja coalition for Kenya Kwanza after the last general elections. Ochieng, leader of the Kenya Kwanza allied Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG), was hastily escorted to his vehicle, and his aides fired shots into the air to disperse an aggressive group of mourners at Ligega village in Ugenya sub-county.
The disturbance began when Ochieng was invited to speak at the funeral of late trade unionist and former long-serving Kenya National Union of Teachers, Siaya branch, William Ohonde, aged 73. Ochieng was confronted and had his microphone snatched away, leading to a fight between MDG and ODM supporters. Subsequently, MDG supporters, including Ochieng, former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo, and former journalist David Ohito, were forced to exit the venue.
During the incident, the ODM group, led by Raila Odinga, Siaya governor James Orengo, and legislators Opiyo Wandayi and Samuel Atandi, remained seated quietly. Tension had been high throughout the funeral, with youths shouting MDG and Kenya Kwanza slogans during speeches.
Raila Odinga later addressed the mourners, condemning the incident and emphasizing the importance of public conduct for leaders. He also criticized the government’s taxation policies and the employment of teachers on contract terms, advocating for better remuneration for teachers.
Siaya governor James Orengo denounced the chaos, attributing it to actions by the MDG leader and associates. He stressed the need for leaders to maintain decorum in public settings. National assembly minority leader and Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi, who also condemned the event, pledged to ensure an end to such disruptions in the area.
Wandayi called on Kenyans to reject Kenya Kwanza supporters, whom he accused of regressing the country.