Democracy prevailed: Omar Boga concedes defeat, promises to work with Bader

ODM’s Omar Boga has graciously accepted defeat in the Msambweni by-election, congratulating independent candidate Feisal Bader on his victory.

In his concession speech, Boga thanked all voters who showed up for the exercise, stating that democracy prevailed.

“I take this opportunity to congratulate Feisal Bader for winning the Msambweni by-election. I wish him well in his journey and I thank all voters for their efforts during campaigns…there was democracy,” he said.

While weighing in on the drama and arrests that marred the by-election, Boga acknowledged that there were challenges but urged the residents of Msambweni to move on and live in harmony with one another.

He also thanked ODM party leader Raila Odinga and Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho for supporting him throughout the campaign period, promising to work together with Feisal to improve the lives of Msambweni residents.

**Omar Boga with President Uhuru Kenyatta** [Courtesy]

“There were challenges but I thank ODM leaders for their support. I will work with Feisal to help Msambweni move forward. We need to create employment opportunities for our youth.

“Politics should not be about hatred. Let us move on and start working,” he said.

Feisal garnered 15,251 votes trouncing his closest challenger, Boga, who got 10,444 votes.

Wiper’s Sheik Mahmoud Abdurahman came a distant third with 790 votes followed by Hamisi Mwakaonje Liganje(UGM) with 230 and Marere Wa Mwachai Mwarapayo(NVP) with 300.

In his acceptance speech, Bader thanked voters for believing in him and extended an olive branch to his opponents, promising to work together with them to improve the constituency.

"I want to thank the people of Msambweni for believing in me. I want to thank all the people who walked with me through to victory. We will work with our opponents for the sake of our constituency," he said.

Earlier, Bungoma Senator Moses Wetangula also congratulated Bader on his win, saying his victory showed reason can triumph over abuses and insults.

“Congratulations Hon Feisal Abdalla Bader on your election as a member of Parliament for Msambweni constituency.

“Reason has triumphed over abuses, insults, negative and unhelpful display of political bad manners. We must insist on good political hygiene,” he tweeted.