The decision by Nyamira Senator Okongo Mong’are to join presidential race will give former Law Society of Kenya Chairman Okong’o Mogeni an upper hand in 2017, says political analyst Gedion Mamboleo.
The two were engaged in a close contest during 2013 polls with the outgoing Senator beating Mogeni by a margin of less 2,000 votes.
On Tuesday, Mong’are joined presidential race insisting that Kenya needs alternative leadership from that of Jomo Kenyatta and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s families.
“This is a good opportunity for Mogeni to win 2017 elections. He is one of the few aspirants who is almost assured of winning 2017 given the political dynamics in Nyamira,” he told the reporter.
“Based on what I hear on the ground and the ODM euphoria, Mong’are would have been subjected to a resounding defeat by Mogeni. Nyamira could be one of the few counties now assured of their incoming senator,” he added.
Mogeni, who at some point said Nyamira Senatorial seat was vacant, said he would still reach people to seek their mandate.
“That was but the first step. I have a lot more to do and I believe my people will help me serve in the Senate,” he said.