Embu woman representative aspirants campaign jointly

Embu gubernatorial candidate Dr Cyrus Njiru flanked by four woman representative hopefuls from left: Josphine Wambura (DP), Niceta Njoki (Independent), Violet Mukami (Agano) and Monicah Syombua (Independent) speak to the press at Mbuvori market in Embu North. The four women have impressed residents by campaigning together in the same forums, without showing antagonism. (Joseph Muchiri, Standard)

Four hopefuls for the woman representative position in Embu have impressed residents by campaigning together.

This was unheard of in the 2013 elections. Former Kigari Teacher's College tutor Josphine Wambura (DP), former microfinance bank manager Niceta Njoki (independent), former lecturer Violet Mukami (Agano), and former Embu Gender Chief Officer Monicah Syombua (independent) have not shown the antagonism that is typical of electioneering.

During rallies they address residents from the same platform, calling for peaceful campaigns and elections even as they try to outshine one another in selling their agendas for the county.

They have been campaigning closely with independent governorship candidate Cyrus Njiru and have hence benefited from the synergy, which ensures they always have large crowds.

This saves them money they would have spent hiring trucks for road shows, masters of ceremony, entertainment, and security.

Dr Njiru said the four women resolved to shelve their differences and work together to inform the residents about their agenda after which voters would make their own choice.

"They are professionals in various fields and leaders in their own rights. We agreed to seek votes in unity and I do not favour any one of them. We agreed that if I become the governor I will incorporate those who lose in my government," he says.

Ms Wambura, Ms Njokim, and Ms Mukami said they rallied behind Dr Njiru because he is corruption-free, competent, and an astute manager.

The women also joined Dr Njiru in accusing Governor Martin Wambora's administration of  corruption in the wake of ongoing investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.

"Embu suffers high rates of unemployment, poor access roads, and an ailing health sector. Orphans have no access to education.

"These issues can only be solved by having the right leaders in place. As woman representative hopefuls we campaign together and do not fight," said Ms Mukami.

The leaders called for free and fair polls so that the people can have leaders of their choice in the next government.

[Joseph Muchiri]