A former MP has defended his working relationship with Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i, terming him 'honest and hard-working'.

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Mr Mwancha Okioma, who served Kitutu Masaba from 2003- 2007, on Sunday said he is not ashamed of being called a sycophant for working closely with the minister.

For the last few months, Okioma has been coordinating Matiang'i's meetings in Nyamira and Kisii, a move that has not gone well with his critics.

But according to him, all leaders from the region should work with Dr Matiang'i to foster development and progress since he's senior most leader in government.

"I cannot get ashamed for working with someone who is in government. Those trying to get political capital by criticising me, so be it," he said.

Mr Okioma was one of speakers at a meeting held in Mekenene last month, where prospects of Dr Matiang'i running for Presidency were discussed.

On running for Nyamira gubernatorial seat, Okioma maintained that he will try his luck for the third time, adding that he's not a 'project'.

"I have gone for the seat twice and narrowly lost. I don't know why my opponents wants me to bolt out. I am not anyway ready for that," he stated.

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