Lamu Women Rep Shakila Abdalla and Governor Issa Timamy at a past function [Photo/ the-star.co.ke]
The race for the Lamu Women Representative seat has taken new shape after the Independent Boundaries and Electoral Commission (IEBC) cleared five candidates to contest for the post ahead of the August general election.
The incumbent, Shakila Abdalla of Wiper, is expected to lock horns with four other candidates who have vowed to give her a run for her money.The electoral body gave a green light to Aisha Nazir of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Muthoni Marubu (independent candidate), Ruweida Obo (Jubilee Party) and Maryam Abubakar (Maendeleo Chap Chap) to vie for the seat.On her part, Shakilla has exuded confidence that she will beat her rivals hands down during the exercise. The women rep has assured residents that she will continue with her fight against drug abuse if re-elected. "I have to continue making sure the youth who are into drugs receive assistance. We'll take them to rehabilitation centres so that they can change their behaviour," said Shakila, as quoted by Standard. Speaking after the clearance of the five, Lamu county returning officer Mohamed Adan called upon the aspirants to ask their supporters to maintain peace during campaigns."Tell your supporters that it is illegal to destroy an opponent's campaign material. It is a criminal offence and those found will be arrested and taken to court," said Adan.