Stiff competition has set in West Pokot county as more young vibrant leaders join the leadership race in the Jubilee party for elections as well for nomination to compete with incumbent members of parliament in the 2017 general elections. Yesterday, elders from Masol endorsed Mr Peter Lochakapong, Kapenguria boys high school teacher, to unseat the current Sigor member of parliament Mr Phillip Rotino, in a ceremony which took place at Mr Lochakapong’s home in Siyoi.
The elders led by Atudo Atuong’ole have accepted Mr Lochakapong to vie for the seat. The elders cited that Lochakapong has good leadership credentials saying he is a development conscious person.
The elders said that the aspirant stands a high chance of winning the seat because he has been on the ground all the time.
They said Lochakapong has initiated many development activities in the area and promoted education to greater heights.
He will battle out with KANU’s Francis Kitalawiyan if he wins the nomination.
Lochakapong who is also the Chairman of West Pokot Secondary school heads association [KESHA] and chairman of Masol Wildlife conservancy is said to be approachable and has been actively championing education and peace in the area.
Two areas, Masol and Seker in the constituency have never produced a member of parliament.
Masol area was the most marginalized area in the county for decades.
All members of the county from Sigor led by Masol ward Representative Mr Ariong’o Lopurena have thrown weight behind Mr.Lochakapong. “Masol area has never produced a leader for 53 years after independence. Cheputule area has produced an MP, Wei Wei has produced a governor,” said Ariong’o.
Ariong’o said they want a fair nomination in the Jubilee party. “We don’t want rigging. The DP William Ruto and President Kenyatta should ensure that there is fairness and no short cuts in the nominations,” said Lochakapong.
Another constituency where the sitting MP face a tough challenge is Kacheliba constituency as the entry of former KANU bigwig John Lodinyo into the Jubilee party will battle out with incumbent Mark Lomunokol.