Councillors clash over election date

By Fatuma Fugicha and Maseme Machuka

Chaos rocked City Hall as councillors differed over the date of mayoral elections.

A section of councillors, led by Mayor Geoffrey Majiwa, pushed for August 10, while a rival group proposed July 27.

The meeting, chaired by Majiwa and Town Clerk Phillip Kisia, degenerated into a shouting match forcing the mayor to call it off.

Civic leaders criticised Majiwa for unilaterally wanting to force a date not agreeable to the majority. Realising things were not working his way, Majiwa retreated to his seat as Kisia took the stage to calm the charged council meeting.

Party affiliation was overcome as ODM and PNU civic leaders united in pushing for an early date to avoid a possible delay if a petition was to be filed in the High Court.

George Aladwa (Makongeni Ward) said the council would not accept a one-man show in setting the date for the election.

"Many of us are ready for an election even if it is called today. The law dictates whenever there is a dispute on the dates, councillors go for a vote. Why is Majiwa afraid of the vote?" he asked.

Nominated Councillor and lawyer Tim Wanyonyi, who is also eyeing the seat, said for democracy to prevail, the rule of law should be respected.

"We do not mind any date whether August 10 or July 27. What we want is an agreed process to avoid foul play. Why is the mayor afraid of the power of the majority?" asked Wanyonyi.

The meeting will now be held on Monday after some civic leaders read political schemes in the two dates.