CAS Obure unveils running mate in race for Kisii governor

Outgoing Transport CAS Chris Obure has unveiled his running mate as campaigns for the Kisii governor’s seat gain momentum.

Obure unveiled financial expert William Mbaka as his running mate during a ceremony at Mbaka’s home on Tuesday morning.

The brief function was attended by outgoing Water executive Charles Onyancha, who is seeking the senator’s seat in Obure’s camp.

“I have known Mbaka for long. He has served the government in various ministries and I have never heard his name being mentioned adversely. Mbaka is an honest, respected and trustworthy person whom we can work with,” Obure said.

He added: “I’m in the process of forming a formidable team. We now have a senator aspirant and running mate.

"Onyancha and Mbaka have had checkered careers in the private sector and government. We intend to form a team that will take this county forward.”

The former senator who hails from Bobasi constituency faces a herculean task in balancing between the six Kisii clans. Onyancha hails from Bonchari while Mbaka comes from Kitutu Chache South.

He urged Kisii voters to vote for them saying they are a safe pair of hands.

Obure and Mbaka said if elected, their focus will be on improvement of healthcare, agriculture, water and road network.

“I have served as minister for Roads and Public Works. I’m currently serving as CAS for Transport and Infrastructure; I know what it takes to improve roads in Kisii town. Other areas I will focus on are youth and women empowerment and provision of water,” he said.

Obure also defended himself against attacks from his opponents who want him to retire on account of his age.

“Age comes with experience. I have a wealth of experience and networks which will come in handy if I’m elected. Kisii needs an experienced hand,” he said.

The veteran politician served as Kisii senator from 2013-2027.

In the battle to take over from outgoing Governor James Ongwae who has completed two terms, more than 10 aspirants have declared their interest.

Those in the race are Kisii Woman Representative Janet Ong’era, Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi, Nyaribari Masaba MP Ezekiel Machogu, Dagoretti North MP Simba Arati and former South Mugirango MPs Manson Oyongo and Omingo Magara.

Others are youths Charles Chweya Matoke, Racheal Otundo and Alfred Nyangweso.

Magara’s bid for governor has been complicated by the defection of Machogu to Deputy President William Ruto’s UDA party.

Ruto is expected to officially receive Machogu, his running mate John Momanyi and woman representative aspirant Esther Nyamwamu on Thursday at Nyanturago in Nyaribari Chache.

Magara has however vowed that he is ready to face off with Machogu in the UDA nominations. Otundo is also seeking the UDA ticket.

(Edited by Bilha Makokha)