Kiambu Governor William Kabogo during the launch of the Kenya Alliance of Independent Candidates at Kasarani Gymnasium, Nairobi, on May 20. [Photo: the-star.co.ke]
Kiambu Governor William Kabogo may have lost the Jubilee party ticket for Kiambu governorship to his fierce rival Kabete MP Ferdinand Waititu, but it is not over yet.
If history is anything to go by, expect Kabogo who is running as an independent not to spend the next five years in political cold.
Many can remember how Kabogo was able to survive the Narc onslaught in 2002 to be elected Juja MP on the little known Sisi Kwa Sisi party. In 2009, he successfully dislodged George Thuo through a court petition and got elected in the preceding by-election.
That said, this is why Baba Yao shouldn't celebrate as yet.
First, Kabogo has been very vocal arguing that political leaders should let Kenyans exercise their democratic right to elect leaders of their choice on August 8.
He has said that there is no reason why politicians should impose leaders on the electorate because of party inclinations adding that people should choose leaders out of their own will and not through coercion or luring. Believe it or not, many are buying into this argument.
Another thing that may play in Kabogo's favour is the fact that many know that Jubilee party nominations were marred by massive irregularities throughout the country. This could perhaps inform why up to now some areas do not have a candidate yet due to disputes.
Also, it is good to remember that once August 8 finally knocks on the door, many people faced with reality, will weigh the performance of the politicians, interrogate their manifestos and make the decision on the secret ballot paper.
Kabogo, arguably, has a decorated developmental track record over the last four years that may see Waititu face an uphill task.Finally, the Chairman of the Kenya Alliance of Independent Candidates that mainly has roots in Mt Kenya region is being perceived as a community leader and a potential Uhuru successor as Kikuyu kingpin rather than just a county governor with limited influence. This perception may play a big role in Kabogo's re-election bid.