Nyamira Orange Democratic Movement chairperson James Gesami has revealed that his wife, Rachael Gesami was behind his declaration for county gubernatorial seat.
The two-term West Mugirango MP caught many leaders by surprise when he announced his bid late May, complicating the race especially in the ODM party given that the incumbent Governor John Nyagarama is a member and has said he will seek re-election.
Speaking on Saturday at his Simbauti home, Gesami said his desire had much to do with his wife who wanted him to give other young people to serve as the area MP.
“Honestly, I never had a plan of quitting the parliamentary race because I was ready for another term. However, one morning my wife challenged me when she said I should get a promotion and give youths a chance to serve in Parliament,” he said.
“I really wondered why she wanted me to look for votes in a wider geographical area rather than a constituency but at the end I saw sense. My development record suits the people of Nyamira and I agree with her in totality,” he added.
He also defended his entrance to the race and insisted that it had nothing to do with wrecking the Orange party ahead of the 2017 polls.
“This is about competition and I believe in people. I am ready to tussle for the ODM ticket and I believe the Nyamira people will give me an opportunity to serve them. The idea may have originated from my wife but I do believe that I can handle the gubernatorial job,” he added.