Wiper deputy secretary general Judith Sijeny, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Minority Leader the late Francis Nyenze and Kitui Central MP Benson Makali at a past function [ Photo/the-star.co.ke)
Barely a month after former legislator Nyiva Mwendwa declared her support for Edith Nyenze to replace his deceased husband; Francis Nyenze in the race of the Kitui West parliamentary seat, her son Maluki Kitili has joined the contest.
The new development is likely to complicate matters for Edith, who has been receiving overwhelming support from the local leaders and residents since the demise of her husband.
The decision of Kitili entering the race came into the limelight on Tuesday after he invited several residents to his home where he declared that he was ready and able to join the contest once the seat has been declared vacant.
Speaking during the burial of the late lawmaker, Nyiva made it clear that she was backing Edith for the seat only for her son to give it a try.
A number of leaders including new chairperson Kivutha Kibwana, Makueni Senator Mutula Kilonzo Jr and Kitui county boss Charity Ngilu said that they will stand with Edith to replace her husband in order to complete what he had started five years ago.
Other candidates to watch in the race include Ben Mbai (Jubilee Party), Robert Lelli (Ford Kenya), Redempter Wanjiku (Independent), Hannington Mbiti (Muungano Party), Dennis Mulwa (ANC) and Edwin Musyoki (DP).