The Independent Electoral Boundary Commission (IEBC) has cleared eight candidates to vie for the Senatorial position in Vihiga County. This marks an uphill task of ousting the incumbent senator George Khaniri who enjoys massive support from the area.
The electoral agency has cleared Jairus Amayi (FPK), Josephat Kenya (Jubilee), Maurice Magomere (PPK), George Khaniri (ANC), Aggrey Ndeda (Independent), Henry Etende (Ford-Kenya), Humphrey Lihanda (ODM) and Julius Saisi (UDP).
Each candidate after presenting their papers at Chavakali High school exuded confidence and said they are set to win by a landslide.
The candidates urged the IEBC to carry out credible, free and fair elections to gain trust from Kenyans and let the voters decide on whom to elect as their leaders. “Last time I vied for the gubernatorial seat but the results were not free and fair,” cried Amayi.
The County returning officer Sarah Ogaro said the candidates had fulfilled all the requirements needed by the agency and therefore given a green light to run for the seat. The candidates were escorted to the centre to present their papers by their supporters who donned vibrant outfit according to the party affiliations.
Khaniri who has been an MP for more than 20 years is going for the second term as senator and has since hinted that this is his last tenure as senator.
Candidates from other parties led by Josephat Kenya have rubbished the idea that area is pro-ANC and said its leaders will be shocked in the August polls. “I have ensured that my support base is strong in this bruising battle and I will emerge the winner come August polls,” said Kenya.