Jubilee youth endorse Imran for Kibra seat, back Uhuru-Raila deal

Some Jubilee youth leaders from Kibra have endorsed the candidature of Orange party's Imran Okoth (pictured) in the upcoming by-election.

In an event attended by former Kisumu Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga, the youth announced a joint intensive campaign for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate.

“Having evaluated all the candidates, we have come to the conclusion that the best one with the vision and clout to fit in the gap left by the late (Ken) Okoth is Imran, and we are going to work with him,” said Zack Kinuthia, the team leader.

The youth praised the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga for bringing peace in the constituency, saying they were not ready for a candidate who would sabotage the deal.

“We will not allow anybody, within or without the party, to thwart our party leader's efforts in uniting and enhancing peace among Kenyans,” read the statement in part.

Remain vigilant

The leaders further claimed that the President was ambushed into endorsing Jubilee Party's McDonald Mariga.

Ms Odinga thanked the youth leaders for embracing the handshake.

“The handshake has brought the kind of peace that we need to enable us to grow and enhance ourselves as a country. On behalf of the party leader, receive our gratitude for your support,” she said.

She also urged the youth to remain vigilant and refuse to be abused politically.

ODM's Kibra chairman Jekoniah Onyago said he was confident the party would retain the Kibra seat.

“The President only put a cap on Mariga’s head and shook his hands, but has never said anything concerning him,” said Mr Onyango.

The Jubilee youth leaders were joined by a number of ODM MCAs.