Fernandez Barasa cleared to run for Kakamega governor

Former Ketraco MD Fernandez Barasa has been cleared by IEBC to run for Kakamega governor.

Barasa and his running mate Lugari MP Ayub Savula seek to succeed Governor Wycliffe Oparanya in August.

The two were given a clean bill of health by Kakamega IEBC coordinator Joseph Ayatta on Monday.

Earlier, there was some tension when the duo didn’t arrive on time as per the IEBC schedule. The delay prompted the returning officer to push their clearance time from 11am to 1pm.

“I want to thank IEBC for clearing us today, we are now officially candidates. The journey has started. As Azimio coalition we urge everyone in the county to support us because this is a sure bet,” Barasa said.

He also asked politicians to desist from misusing the youth.

The candidate said politicians should conduct peaceful campaigns as they sell their policies to the electorate.

“Soon we shall launch our manifesto, in which we have captured issues of health, roads and education,” he said.

Savula said the delay at IEBC offices was a sabotage organised by their Kenya Kwanza opponents.

He said free and fair elections can only be achieved devoid of violence.

“This morning I went to Moi University Eldoret to for my Bachelors and Masters degrees to be certified. However, on reaching the gate, I was blocked by more than 3,000 boda bodas.

"However, I want to thank the security of the institution, the OCPD and DCI of Kesses who intervened for restoring order and enabling my immediate certification.” Savula said

He blamed the Kenya Kwanza leaders for his predicaments at the Moi University gate.

Barasa will face off with Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala (ANC) and Samuel Omukoko (MDP), who are supposed to go through the IEBC clearance process on Tuesday.

Others are former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo (UDP), lawyer Michael Usundwa (Independent), Suleiman Sumba (KANU) and Optiso Otieno (Independent).

(Edited by Bilha Makokha)