Wiper candidate takes lead in Masongaleni ward, Makueni

IEBC's Kibwezi West Returning Officer, Titus Mutemi (left) presents the certificate to Wiper’s Masongaleni Ward Representative-elect, Col (Rtd) Philip Mumo at Kyumani Social Hall in Makueni County. (Photo:Paul Mutua)

Wiper candidate was last evening headed for victory in the Masongaleni Ward by-election in Makueni County.

By the time of going to press, Mr Philip Mumo garnered 1,654 votes from 28 out of 34 polling stations. His nearest rival Florence Kilonzo of TIP had 978, while Richard Munywoki 743 and Dominic Mutwote of Muungano 730.

According to IEBC officials, the voter turn out was low. For instance, at Miangeni Primary School with 400 registered voters, only about 70 voters turned out to vote.

The ward has 9,354 registered voters.

Mr Mumo was the first to cast his vote at Kyumani Primary School at around 9am while the TIP candidate voted at Lukenya Primary school.

However, the social media was awash with reports of voter bribery at various centres although none of those allegations was reported to police. The by-election attracted five candidates.