Former Kisauni MP Ananiah Mwaboza has downplayed claims that he has opted to shelf his gubernatorial bid in the next general election.
Speaking in Ganjoni in Mvita, Mwaboza said that he is aware that a section of leaders from Jubilee have been spreading rumors that he has dropped out of the race to unseat Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho in 2017.
He said leaders spreading the rumors do not have the will of the people at heart and should desist from the same.
Mwaboza said he is still in the race, adding that he will not step down for anyone, including businessman Suleiman Shahbal.
“There are stories doing rounds that we met at the office of Deputy President William Ruto and I agreed to step down for Shahbal. Those claims are false because I am in the race and will seek the Jubilee Party ticket,” said Mwaboza, as quoted by The Standard.
Mwaboza faulted Shahbal for taking away the masses from his side by opening offices in different parts of the county without proper plans for his people.
Shahbal, however, criticised him saying that Jubilee does not belong to him.
“Jubilee Party does not belong to Mwaboza and the issue of hijacking does not arise here. I welcome the decision to open up more offices. This in essence means our party is gaining support in a formerly CORD-dominated area,” said Shahbal.