West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin and his rival Senator John Lonyangapuo have been cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to vie for the County gubernatorial seat. KANU’s Lonyangapuo and Jubilee’s Kachapin will now face off in the August polls in a tight race.
Lonyangapuo was the first to be cleared accompanied by his running mate Dr Nicholas Atudonyang.
Speaking after being cleared at Mtello hall in Kapenguria, Prof Lonyangapuo said that the KANU team has begun its journey of campaigns. “We have finished the last lap and we shall now start serious campaigns,” he said.
He asked the National Cohesion and Integration Commission to take action on politicians who use hate speech and incitement, “Those using inflammatory statements should be arrested,” he said.
Lonyangapuo defended himself over allegations by his opponents that he will chase away non-locals if elected as the County Governor. “People living in West Pokot should not listen to such things,” he said.
Dr. Atudonyang urged residents to change the County leadership which has let down the locals for the last four years. “This is the new chapter for West Pokot. We want to do away with the government which has not helped our people. Our people need services,” said Atudonyang. He said they are ready to take over the County leadership and bring change.
Governor Kachapin on his part was cleared together with his deputy Titus Lotee.
Speaking after clearance Governor Kachapin said he is ready to wrestle with his opponent adding that Lonyangapuo should be ready to face reality come August.
“I am confident that the people of West Pokot will give me another chance to serve them as their Governor. I want to tell my friend Lonyangapuo that the people will decide,” said Kachapin. Kachapin called on all politicians to conduct a peaceful campaign and not to divide the people.
He said his administration has delivered to the people of West Pokot and he is confident of reelection. The Governor was accompanied by Kapenguria MP Samuel Moroto, Pokot South MP David Pkossing and Labour PS Khadijah Kassachoon.