Kakamega Senator Cleopa Malala has announced his support for Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi, after months of dalliance with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) boss Raila Odinga.
Until recently, the youthful leader was more lenient towards the Orange party, links he cut on Saturday, declaring his full support for the former Vice President and his 2022 presidential ambitions.
He added that all Western Kenya leaders will rally behind Mudavadi ahead of his bid, further rubbishing claims that some area leaders lack respect for the leader and have been dismissing his presidential plans.
He said that himself and others will tirelessly work to make the ground favorouble for Mudavadi.
“Today, we are announcing our full support to our brother (Mudavadi) to ensure the Luhya community moves together as a bloc. We are ready to conduct the groundwork for you as our presidential candidate in 2022,” he was quoted by the Nation.
Malala spoke in Mwikali, Mumias East in Kakamega, in a funeral service that was also attended by Mudavadi and a host of other area leaders.
On his side, Mudavadi welcomed the backing, saying that he is ready to work with all leaders ahead of the much anticipated contest.
He lashed out at a section of area leaders who have been selling their support to other leaders also eyeing the presidency, terming it time for the Luhya community to produce a president.
"We must stand up to show that we are now ready to lead this country, we must show that not for sale," added Mudavadi.
Mudavadi took his first shot at the presidency in the 2013 elections, before emerging a distant third after President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila.