•"Kenya is truly poised to be an economic and political powerhouse on our continent. Because of my desire to serve Kitui and the people of Kenya, we have over the last 2 years ran a spirited race for Governor," he said.
I promise to continue doing everything within my ability, Jonathan Mueke said as he conceded defeat in Kitui gubernatorial race.
Mueke acknowledged that the election was run with a level of political maturity that shows the strides we have made as a democracy and as a people.
"Kenya is truly poised to be an economic and political powerhouse on our continent. Because of my desire to serve Kitui and the people of Kenya, we have over the last 2 years ran a spirited race for Governor," he said.
"A race founded on integrity, honesty and goodwill to do the right thing for our people."
Mueke said he visited every corner of the county and met with thousands of people.
"The elections came and the people of Kitui have decided they would like someone else to lead them. A decision I fully respect," he said.
"To all our supporters who have walked this journey with us, I thank you. To Steve Kilungya my running mate and our entire campaign team, I thank you."
He congratulated the incoming Governor of Kitui.
"It is my hope that he shall deliver for our people and make every effort to tackle the 5 major problems that we face as a people: Water, Roads, Health, Education and Poverty," he said.
"I promise to continue doing everything within my ability to ensure that we uplift the lives of our people and secure the future for our youth. We may have lost this race but have definitely not lost the desire to make Kitui and Kenya a better place for all of us and our families."