Former IG of police David Kimaiyo has defended his record as a cop, saying he is ready to clinch the Elgeyo Marakwet Senate seat.
While presenting his nomination papers to IEBC on Sunday, Kimaiyo dismissed claims that he has little experience in politics and said he will beat his rival incumbent Senator Kipchumba Murkomen.
"I have been in politics for a very long time. I crisscrossed the country with former President (Daniel) Moi and I understand politics better," he said.
"I have also been a member in the national security council, an experience no other leader has," he added.
Kimaiyo said he is ready to work with other county leaders whom he accused Murkomen of alienating.
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"I will not dwell on petty politics like talking about individuals. I will begin door-to-door campaigns to humbly request for votes," the ex-police boss said.
Kimaiyo said he will sponsor a bill advocating for harsh penalties for cattle rustlers in a bid to end banditry in Kerio Valley if elected.
He said he helped the Internal Security ministry draft bills during his tenure as Inspector General and so is fit for the job.
He said he will join hands with other leader to campaign for President Uhuru Kenyatta's re-election.
In a veiled statement though to be in reference to Murkomen, Kimaiyo said his unprecedented removal from office as IG was engineered by a vocal politician.
“I retired before my term ended. I wish to let you know that that retirement was engineered by a politician from our county. I will tell the truth when I begin my door-door campaign,” he said.
He said Murkomen pushed for his removal despite having established structures for the office of IG after he was appointed to the helm of the police service.
Murkomen will present his papers to the county returning officer on Monday.
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