[Garissa Parliamentary seat hopeful Farah Maalim in a past event. He has begged non- Muslims to support his bid.] (Photo: the-star.co.ke)Garissa Parliamentary seat aspirant Farah Maalim has pleaded with non-Muslims and Somalis living in the constituency to vote for him in the August 8 polls.
In a meeting with representatives of non-locals in Garissa on Tuesday, Maalim pledged to fight for their interests if he clinches the parliamentary seat on August 8.
He further pledged to create business opportunities for non- locals and enhance unity among all communities.
The former National Assembly Deputy Speaker accused the incumbent MP Aden Duale of allegedly discriminating against non-locals especially on empowerment programs.
He claimed that Duale has been sidelining non- locals, a move he said has created suspicion among the communities in the constituency.
“I will defend the rights of every citizen and create equal opportunities for everyone if elected,” he said as quoted by the People Daily.
Maalim also urged non-locals not to fear saying that they have every right to live in any part of the constituency.
He called on Garissa locals to embrace peace and unity and shun politicians who are preaching hatred in their campaigns.
Maalim further urged locals to reject politicians who he claimed are using bribes and material goods to woo for votes.
He asked the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to investigate politicians contravening the Election Act and take stern action against them.
Maalim is battling it out with Duale for the Garissa seat.
The two politicians have been engaging in public spats with Duale saying that he will condemn Maalim to early retirement.
The National Assembly Majority claims that Maalim is a political reject and has nothing to offer locals.