Nyali MP Hezron Awiti yesterday said his decision to run for Mombasa governor will not split the Wiper party.
Awiti is likely to run against fellow Wiper member Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar, who has hinted he will gun for the seat.
The MP said internal democracy will strengthen the party.
He described Omar as an astute politician and a close friend whom he respects.
“Omar is a friend whom I respect and have worked with very closely to build the party. At no point will we allow our political rivalries to spill over to the general election,” he told the Star on the phone.
Political analysts say this statement is an indication the two might seek a win-win formula that will ensure they defeat incumbent Hassan Joho.
Awiti said he and Omar have invested heavily in the party and will not allow it to crumble due to their political ambitions.
“As Wiper, we will conduct our party nominations with decorum and ensure democracy prevails,” he said.
Omar has been criss-crossing the county, seeking residents’ views on whether he should go for the top seat.
Governors will control an increased budget of Sh307 billion in the 2016-17 fiscal year, according to the Budget Policy Statement.
Control of these billions of shillings has prompted almost all 47 senators to eye the governors’ positions.
