Mbadi seeks to reunite, support from hostile clans

Suba South MP John Mbadi has begun uniting clans who have engaged in political conflicts to consolidate votes in his constituency.

Two major clans, Kadibuoro and Kalisuria, have not seen eye to eye since 2017 when Mbadi faced off with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s aide Caroli Omondi in the general election.

Mbadi and Caroli engaged in a fierce political battle that saw a split among clan members constituting Suba South constituency.

Kalisuria clan where Mbadi hails from supported his bid while Kadibuoro supported Caroli.

The differences also saw minor clans align themselves between the two.

Clans such as Kamwala, Orore and Ong'ongo were allied to Kadibuoro while Kachuodho and Nyatambe among others sided with Kalisuria.

On Wednesday, Mbadi started an initiative of meeting clan members of Kadibuoro to win them over as 2022 general election approaches.

Mbadi who has declared his bid for Homa Bay governorship said it was important for the people from his constituency to approach the next election undivided.

“Let’s not make the past political differences an enmity. We need to chart new path and  I therefore ask for forgiveness if I wronged anybody in my politics,” Mbadi said.

Speaking at Ogaka village in Lak Nyiero trading centre near Caroli’s home, Mbadi appealed to members of Kadibuoro clan and other allied clans to forget the past political differences and forge united force.

He said his eyes are now focused on becoming Homa Bay governor, adding that he will not meddle in politics of who succeeds him as Suba South MP in 2022 elections.

He said Caroli still has an opportunity to contest the constituency seat.

He is serving his third term as the area MP.

The ODM national chairman was in company of Homa Bay MCAs Evans Marieba (Gwassi North), Mola Ochola (West Kasipul) and nominated Lona Owino, Jessica Otieno, Judy Kamaria and Millicent Nyaboke.

Former MCAs Jared Kajomo and Isaac Nyandege were also present.

Mbadi said he plans to meet Caroli, his allies and members of the clans who did not support him last time to iron out political issues that have been between them.

“Suba community has been voting as one since 1983. I don't see any reason why we should be divided in the 2022 general election,” Mbadi said.

The constituency currently has four wards, Gwassi North, Ruma Kaksingri, Gwassi South and Kaksingri West.

“My leadership will address health challenges facing many residents not only in Suba but in the entire Homa Bay. My candidacy is the best for transforming the county,” Mbadi said.

More than nine aspirants have expressed interest in becoming Homa Bay governor after Cyprian Awiti’s term expires.

They include Homa Bay Woman Rep Gladys Wanga, former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero, former Kasipul MP Oyugi Magwanga, businessmen Jared Kiasa and Louis Ogingo.

Others are the county secretary Isaiah Ogwe, Finance executive Nicholas K’Oriko and Kuppet secretary general Akelo Misori.

Marieba and Kamaria said Homa Bay needs a governor who can be trusted with public resources.

“We need a development conscious person who will ensure cartels don’t misuse public resources,” Marieba said.

 

 

 

-Edited by SKanyara