Kabarnet: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) will conduct party primaries for the Baringo senatorial by-elections. This decision comes in the wake of the vacancy left by the late William Cheptumo, ensuring that the party does not resort to handpicking a candidate.
According to Kenya News Agency, Prof. Kindiki, speaking at an economic empowerment event in Kabarnet and Kabartonjo, reassured party members of a transparent nomination process. He stated that nominations would be fair, and the candidate who secures the ticket will receive full support from the party. This announcement awaits the official election dates from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Prof. Kindiki, accompanied by leaders from the Rift Valley and other regions, encouraged UDA aspirants to present their manifestos respectfully and with decorum. Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot echoed Kindiki's sentiments, expressing the party's readiness to commence the nomination process once the IEBC announces the election date. Cheruiyot also expressed confidence in UDA's prospects, emphasizing the importance of supporting the eventual nominee as a sign of respect to President William Ruto, who has been instrumental in driving development projects in Baringo.
The Baringo senatorial seat has drawn interest from over ten aspirants, including notable figures such as Reuben Chepsongol of KVDA, Sylus Tochim from the Tourism Board, and former Tourism Fund CEO Joseph Cherutoi. Among the new faces are Wycliffe Tobole, Kiprono Chemitei, Daniel Kiptoo, Evans Mundulel, and Linus Kamket, all of whom have declared their intention to contest under the UDA banner.