MP warns leaders against politicking at burial of ODM official

Rongo MP Paul Abuor. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Rongo MP Paul Abuor, who is chairing the funeral committee of the late Migori branch ODM chairman Philip Makabong'o has appealed to leaders to steer clear of politics during the burial.

Abuor, who was labelled a rebel MP for associating with the Kenya Kwanza government, called for peace during the burial.

Arrangements have been made to beef up security during the burial of the ODM official on January 12.

“We don’t want politics discussed at the burial. The biggest stakeholders are the Catholic Church and the villagers. Let us maintain peace during the burial and not say words that will hurt the other person,” Abuor said.

The MP said the time for politics has passed and people should focus on development.

Area OCPD, OCS, County Commander and County Commissioner have assured leaders of security during the burial.

“We want to ensure the burial happens peacefully. Security will be provided by the government,” Abuor said.

The Migori branch ODM chairman died on December 24, aged 67, after he was admitted to Agha Khan Hospital in Kisumu.

Makabong'o joined ODM in 2012 and was elected Migori branch chairman in 2015.

In their condolence message, leaders including ODM Chairman John Mbadi, Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko and Migori Chairman Azimio Holly Okwama, said they were shocked to learn of the demise of the Migori branch ODM Chairman.

Mbadi described Makabong'o's death as a huge setback to the ODM fraternity and nation.

"In Makabong'o, death has not only robbed us a branch party chair but also the secretary to all 47 counties chair forum," Mr Mbadi said.

The ODM Chairman eulogised Makabong'o as a steadfast, brave, vocal and vibrant grassroots leader who tirelessly and diligently served the ODM party in enhancing social democratic space, whose effect is felt nationally.

Governor Ayacko said the late ODM official was straightforward on party matters.

"He stood firm with ODM. He led the party peacefully and justly. He guarded the party's laws and loved the party," he said.

Okwama said Makabong'o stood strong, and his experience was important to the party.