The electoral body IEBC has today given Vihiga MP Yusuf Chanzu the go ahead to run for the gubernatorial seat on an Amani National Congress (ANC) party ticket. The candidate arrived shortly after 9am while accompanied by his running mate Billy Nyonje and scores of supporters at Chavakali High school.
Two other candidates Wilberforce Otichilo and current governor Moses Akaranga were cleared yesterday. Others to be cleared today include Kennedy Butiko (UDP), Helen Otolo (Independent) and Josephat Amadi (Independent).
The race has attracted seven hopefuls who want to oust the current governor Moses Akaranga who they claim has misused the county’s resources.
The County returning officer Sarah Ogaro said Chanzu had fulfilled all the requirements needed by the agency and therefore given a green light to run for the seat.
Chanzu said his agenda is to develop the County and improve the welfare of the residents by initiating viable projects targeting the populace. “Immediately I am sworn in as the area Governor, I will spearhead development projects that target to improve the livelihoods of our people,” said Chanzu.
At the same time, he accused the County Governor of abating corruption and misusing county resources for his re-election. “I have been told that the Governor is using county resources to mobile people to the tunes of millions. I call upon the EACC to investigate him to ascertain the truth,” said Chanzu.
He claimed that the Governor had borrowed money from commercial banks putting the taxpayers into an unnecessary debt amounting to Kshs 2.5 billion.
Chanzu urged the current Governor to pave way for new leadership since he fell short of his promises to the electorate and failed to develop Vihiga County.