IEBC clears 10 aspirants for Kibra’s by-election
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) yesterday cleared over 10 candidates seeking to contest in the Kibra by-election on November 7.
At least 26 candidates have shown interest to fill the seat, which fell vacant following the death of the incumbent, Ken Okoth in July.
Of the 26 aspirants, 12 are independent candidates while 14 are vying on different political parties.
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Among those cleared, yesterday were Ford Kenya’s Khamisi Butichi, Eliud Owalo (Amani National Congress), Editar Ochieng’ (Ukweli Party) Elijah Abasa (Narc Kenya) and Fridah Kerubo, among others.
Jubilee’s MacDonald Mariga is expected to present his papers today while his ODM counterpart Bernard Otieno Okoth will have to wait until a petition filed against his nomination is heard and determined.
Present papers
After presenting his papers, Butichi said Kibra requires new leaders with fresh ideologies and warned against divisions when campaigns officially kick-off.
Butichi, who was accompanied by Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetang’ula, Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa among other officials, urged IEBC to expedite the clearance process so aspirants could have their campaign schedule adopted and subsequently start seeking votes.
Wetang’ula urged all parties fielding candidates in Kibra as well as independent candidates to ensure a friendly campaign devoid of any stone-throwing, mudslinging and name-calling.
“All aspirants should present themselves with civility to Kibra residents with a message of goodwill, hope and for the future to continue with the legacy of Okoth,” he said.
Wetang’ula said they had a trial run for Butichi to stamp their presence, even as he insisted it was a new dawn for Kibra and it would not be business as usual.
