An aspirant for the post of the governor in Garissa has refuted claims that he is being used by powerful politicians in the county to influence voting patterns during the August general election.
Bashir Haji on Thursday defended his candidature saying he made the decision to vie for the coveted seat on his own.
Speaking to the press in Garissa town after meeting retired military officers from the area, the former Kenya Army officer said he was in the gubernatorial race to the end.
He said no amount of name calling and intimidation will stop his name from appearing on the ballot paper in August.
"I started my campaigns in November last year with the clear intention of changing the fortunes of our county for the better if elected," he said.
"I have a clear manifesto and agenda that will transform our county," he added.
Bashir, 58, who comes from the Samawadhal community said he was at a better position to beat Governor Nathif Jama during the polls.
He is the younger brother to Garissa Senator Yusuf Haji.
Garissa governor Nathif Jama (L) who Mr Bashir is challenging. (R) is Bashir's brother Senator Yusuf Haji. the-star.co.ke