Nakuru governor Kinuthia Mbugua (L) alongside his new youthful running mate Dr Peter Ketyenya address the press, in Nakuru, May 19, 2017. [Photo/Courtesy]
Nakuru governor Kinuthia Mbugua has announced he will be defending his seat, as an independent candidate, in the August 8, elections.
This is after he lost the Jubilee Party ticket, to former NTSA chairman, Lee Kinyanjui, in the just concluded, April primaries.
He attributed the decision to be on the ballot without party sponsorship, to his supporters, and advisers, saying he received overwhelming support, from them, requesting him to defend his seat.
“It is because of their wise counsel and my own personal commitment that I have decided to take advantage of the constitutional provisions and my democratic right to take part in the next general elections, scheduled for the 8th August 2017, as an Independent candidate,” he said.
Addressing the press in Nakuru, Mbugua also unveiled Dr Peter Ketyenya, as his running mate, dropping deputy governor Joseph Rutto.
He however clarified that he did not part ways with Rutto on a bad note but for personal reasons, for he himself opted not to proceed.
“We are still together, and through other avenues we will continue to work hand in hand for the sake of our great county. I strongly feel duty bound not to let the people of Nakuru down,” the governor said, Friday.
The governor further hailed the Jubilee Party under the leadership of President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto, saying he still supports their re-election, even as an Independent candidate.
“I will still join hands with the people of Nakuru County in campaigning and mobilizing the entire electorate for their re-election. These two leaders are Kenya’s best choice of leadership. I am pleading with Kenyans, and particularly the great people of Nakuru County to offer them their unwavering support,” he said.