Independent aspirants team up for campaigns

By Lawrence Aluru

Siaya, KENYA: Two independent candidates for elective seats in Siaya County have teamed up to give political parties a run for their money.

US President Barack Obama’s stepbrother Malik Obama and Ms Agnes Awuor took their campaign to the Orange Democratic Movement’s stronghold of Siaya where they urged voters to elect people who will bring development in the area.

He is out to try his luck in the race as the third force that brings in newcomers into Siaya politics after Dr Oburu Odinga and William Oduol’s nomination results were nullified last week.

Malik, who is eyeing the governor seat, said Siaya people needed a politician to help restore sanity in a county that had lagged behind for many years.

Eradicate poverty

Malik said the residents needed change, adding that with his influence he could eradicate poverty, develop infrastructure and bring about industrialisation in the county.

“I hope to use all the powers within me to bring on board investors that will see our county come out of the poverty stigma that is evident on the face of many,” said Malik.

Speaking at Ahindi Garden in Siaya town while launching his bid for the seat, Malik said he was going to work on a programme that also aims at eradicating illiteracy and diseases.

Bad shape

He said he would develop infrastructure in the county, which was currently in bad shape.

He invited all the leaders in the county to unite to enhance development.

Malik pointed out that he only wanted to bring change in the county.

Malik lamented that those elected in the past had let the people down by not prioritising on development, but instead on things that would benefit them and their families.

He was in the company of Awuor, who is gunning for the senatorial seat in the same county as the sole challenger for Lands minister James Orengo.

Awuor said she would work with Malik in their campaigns during the remaining days before the General Election.

“I am giving myself to the people of Siaya to be their servant and will make sure that all projects that are put forward by the County Assembly are defended amicably,” said Awuor.

She said she had foreseen the weakness in the just-ended party primaries and that was why she decided to be independent.

“I will stabilise the economy for the county, provide for healthcare facilities and promote education,” said Awuor.