Several hopefuls seeking elective posts in Kericho county have declared interest, while others say they are still consulting on which seats to run for.
Silvanus Martim has declared interest for the Ainamoi MP seat. Maritim comes from Kapsaos village in the constituency told the Star he will be in 2017 ballot paper. Ainamoi is currently represented by Benjamin Langat.
Anne Too is also said to be interested in the Ainamoi parliamentary seat. Although she is yet to make the announcement, her supporters think she will either run for Ainamoi MP or Kericho woman representative. During a funds drive at the weekend in Kericho Tea Hotel, Too said she is consultting widely before making the announcement. She urged women to go for elective seats, saying women have the numbers. “Women have bigger number of registered voters than men. This could see the next Parliament, Senate and most government slots go to women,” she said.
The Nairobi businesswoman comes from Kenegut, Ainamoi constituency.
In Belgut, which is held by MP Eric Keter of Kanu, three hopefuls have shown interest for the seat. They include Nelson Koech Sonko, Raymond Cheruiyot and Roads executive Charles Birech.
Birech is likely to give Keter a run for his money, since he has helped build 1,300km of roads in the county.
Youths, who got casual jobs during the roads constructions, have urged him to go for the Belgut MP seat.
Already a youth leader in Kericho county, Thomas Martim has started campaigns for Birech.
Kericho assembly speaker Japheth Mutai is likely to oppose Buret MP Leonard Sang. Youths from the constitiuency have started referring to him as their MP.
The seat of governor, being held Paul Chepkwony, has also attracted a number of candidates.
Ainamoi MP Langat is said to be weighing on whether to run for the county top job or try to retain his position.