[Aden Duale in a past event. He may retain his seat after all despite the stiff competition. Photo/nation.co.ke]
Although loved and hated on equal measure, National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale may after all retain his seat.
Duale has been a critic of opposition leaders and has often held press conferences t counter anti-government information, waged by the opposition.
Political scientist Gideon Mamboleo says the move by opposition to endorse two candidates in Garissa Town constituency will be a major advantage to Duale, whom the opposition is keen to defeat.
“Duale should not be underrated at all. He is at pole position to retain his seat if opposition goes to elections in his constituency divided,” he told the reporter.
During his tour to Garissa last week, opposition leader Raila Odinga endorsed Nassir Dolal, who was runners up in 2013, despite having persuaded him to drop his bid in favour of Farah Maalim.
“My party leader prevailed upon me to support Maalim this year but he disappointed us by joining Wiper without consultation,” Dolal told the star.
Until his defection to Wiper, Maalim was ODM Chairman for Disciplinary committee and served as Deputy Speaker in 10th Parliament.