Political analyst Ambrose Weda now says that Migori Governor Okoth Obado's continued detention will render the looming senatorial by-election in the county a one-horse race.
Speaking on KBC English Service Wednesday morning, the commentator noted that Obado's absence has reduced the area dominant Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party's opposition.
He said that Obado’s initial threat to push for another candidate’s win for the seat was a real scare for the block, considering that he is enjoying a lot of support in the county.
And with the county chief now remanded at Nairobi’s Industrial Area Prison, he observed, the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga led-side has no major opposition.
‘’The absence of the Governor is an advantage for the Orange party and its candidate Ochillo Ayacko, especially after Obado’s vow to oppose Ayacko’s bid,’’ he said.
Obado who is being probed over alleged murder of Rongo University student Sharon Otieno has repeatedly expressed his displeasure with ODM’s direct nomination of Ayacko, terming it ‘dictatorial and undemocratic’.
The Governor vowed to support Federal Party of Kenya (FPK) candidate Eddy Oketch, with a section of his allies back in Migori reportedly joining the latter's last-minute campaigns.
But according to Weda, Okech and the remaining team might not succeed is realizing the required results when alone, in the absence of the experienced and resourceful county boss.
Meanwhile, ODM has launched heavy campaigns in the region to drum up support for Ayacko.
The election is set for October 8.