The decision by former Kitutu Masaba MP Walter Nyambati to announce his intention to run for the Nyamira bubernatorial seat has been fiercely defended by a close ally.
Nyamabati’s intention had been criticised by a section of residents from Kitutu Masaba who alleged that his candidature was orchestrated by the incumbent John Nyagarama to scuttle votes from the constituency which is the largest in the county and a home to closest challenger, Charles Mochama.
Speaking at a funeral in Gesima ward on Friday, aspiring Gesima MCA Mokaya Maroko defended the former MP, saying he has credential to lead the county government.
He dismissed claims that Nyambati was a ‘project’ of Mr Nyagarama and challenged opponents to campaign on the platform of real issues affecting people.
“I am disappointed that we are still engaging in politics of witch hunt. The constitution and elections act as very clear on who contests and so on. I don’t see any reason why Nyambati should not go for the elections because I am contended that he is a performer. He never works for the incumbent and it’s good to know that,” he said.
Mokaya accused the residents who were campaigning on platform of regions and insisted that Nyamira needs a performing leader regardless of the region they came from.
“As politicians, we should ignore the fact about where a contestant comes from. We should elect people based on their ability and not regions. Therefore, I don’t see the reason why people from Bogetutu should complain over the candidature of Nyambati,” he added.
Mr Nyambati’s entry takes the tally of people from Kitutu Masaba contesting Nyamira gubernatorial to four with Mwancha Okioma, Charles Mochama and Evans Misati having declared their candidature.