Nyamira: Four out of ten prospective candidates seeking the Member of County Assembly (MCA) elective seat for Nyamaiya Ward in Nyamira County have been cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and have officially begun campaigns.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ms. Chepkirui Catherine, the Returning Officer (RO) for West Mugirango Constituency, stated that six candidates were scheduled for clearance on Wednesday, but only four managed to submit their nomination papers. The remaining two were rescheduled to present their documents today, Thursday.
The West Mugirango Constituency Returning Officer told the press that the exercise went on smoothly despite a few challenges by aspirants who made errors while filling the nomination forms. These candidates were guided to fill the forms correctly.
'Some aspirants were accompanied by those to second them; they registered in two political parties and were advised to ensure they were accompanied by a seconder who is duly registered by that particular political party only, and the aspirants readily complied,' Ms. Chepkirui confirmed.
She confirmed that those who have been cleared by the IEBC could commence their campaigns immediately and continue until 48 hours before the by-election date. Ms. Chepkirui urged cleared aspirants to conduct peaceful campaigns and observe the electoral code of conduct, together with their supporters.
Among those cleared to vie is Christopher Moturi Osiemo of the UPA Party, a brother to the late MCA Elijah Osiemo, who lost his life in a tragic road accident. Soul Nyong'a Twabe, popularly known as the bulldozer of the Democratic Change Party (DCP); Richard Monyancha of Chama Cha Kazi (CCK); and Martin Kibore, also popularly referred to as Kibore Bora, of the ODM Party.
Speaking after receiving clearance, Monyancha urged residents not to be influenced on who to vote for, but to elect a leader who will champion development in Nyamaiya Ward. He added that he is ready to work with the people and transform Nyamaiya if elected as MCA. Mr. Kibore of ODM promised to serve the people diligently if elected, emphasising fostering unity and transparency in his leadership.
IEBC is expected to complete the clearance of all candidates by today, Thursday, after which the official campaign period for all aspirants will begin. Nyamira County will conduct by-elections for three wards: Nyamaiya ward in West Mugirango Constituency, Ekerenyo Ward in North Mugirango Constituency and Nyansiongo Ward in Borabu Constituency.