Magara will not get automatic nomination, ODM says

By Peter Atsiaya

Immediate former South Mugirango MP Omingo Magara will not be favoured during ODM’s party nominations.

The party’s elections board chairman Philip Okundi dismissed calls to give Magara direct nomination, saying ODM’s rules would not be bent to favour the former Trade assistant minister.

"The Party’s position is that its constitution would guide the board while conducting nominations for candidates for the Parliamentary seat," said Mr Okundi.

"Magara as ODM national treasurer knows party elections rules and I think he would be happy if they are followed to the letter," he said.

He said ODM elections rules do not state a party national official should be given special treatment.

ODM MPs allied to Agriculture minister William Ruto have launched a campaign to have Magara not subjected to party’s nominations ahead of the by-election.

Led by Tourism Minister Najib Balala and Cherangany MP Joshua Kutuny they said Magara should be given an automatic nomination due to his position in the party.