Kisumu Town East Member of Parliament Shakeel Ahmed Shabir is a household name in Kisumu, and by extension Luo Nyanza. Plucked from a thriving business empire by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, the Pakistani Kenyan has had an illustrious political career starting as a nominated councilor to Mayor of Kisumu and now serving as a second-term legislator for Kisumu Town East constituency.
With the 2017 elections beckoning, Shakeel has kept everyone guessing over his next political move. He has been mentioned as a possible gubernatorial candidate although not much of him has been felt over the seat. Others have hinted that he may be considering retiring from politics altogether. All in all, he will have the final say when he decides to.
Of huge interest is the Kisumu Town East parliamentary race. On this, whatever decision Shakeel makes will determine who becomes the next MP. If he chooses to defend his seat, then all the other aspirants currently eyeing the post have every reason to be afraid because he will beat them hands down as soon as the polling begins on elections day.
If however Shakeer opts out and does not defend his seat, the battle to succeed him will be an open one with the aspirants having a field day. Already five politicians have hit the ground running hoping to either succeed him by fighting amongst themselves or rival him if he chooses to defend the seat.
Nicholas Oricho and Anditi Winyo lead the pack from Kajulu clan while Josam Otuge and Job Ndege drawn from the Kolwa clan are also expected to be in the race. These four could have an advantage because their clans are the biggest and most populous in the constituency though Shakeel has been enjoying massive support from both.
The four candidates have nonetheless registered a lackluster campaign, albeit waiting to hear the incumbent’s next move. More funny, all of them are members of the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.
TNA Nominated Senator Joy Adhiambo Gwendo will be the surprise candidate should her name be on the ballot.
Going by the ground work she is currently engaged in the vast constituency, she may be the other focus other than Shakeel. She comes from Kolwa and is the only woman who has expressed interest in the seat.
The Senator’s party of choice might need little second guessing among the residents though she is determined to trounce her male rivals and whomever ODM will pick to succeed Shakeel.