Our candidate for Nairobi is Betty Adera, says Kanu

Betty Adera at the party headquarters in Nairobi on Wednesday, December 30, 2020, when she announced her candidature. [Collins Kweyu, Standard]

Kanu has fronted Betty Adera as its preferred candidate for the Nairobi governor's race.

The city-county seat fell vacant after the Senate upheld the impeachment of Governor Mike Sonko.

Yesterday, Kanu said it was fielding Adera, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Betty Adera Foundation.

However, Adera is on the list forwarded by Jubilee Party to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Kanu is in post-election pact with Jubilee (see related story on page 10).

Adera came into the limelight when she contested for Ms President, a reality show that was aired on KTN last year. With her great oratory skills, Adera, who represented Nairobi County, demonstrated her passion and potential to serve the country in a leadership position.

Peacebuilding

She was also recognised in Los Angeles, US, during the First Anniversary Edition of Passion Vista Global Icon Awards for her efforts towards peacebuilding and humanitarian work.

She has also earned several other accolades for her roles in peacebuilding and empowerment of women and youth.

Adera yesterday promised a “realistic manifesto”, including a strategy to end persistent wrangles at City Hall. She said she would engage all stakeholders and find a lasting solution.

She added that if elected governor, she would promote service delivery and maintain a good working relationship with Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS).

“I will work with NMS to build wealth creation and security through homeownership. I will bring all stakeholders on board and engage in fruitful conversations,” said Adera.

The candidate pledged to address health challenges Nairobi residents have been struggling with for many years.

“Under my leadership, no woman will give birth in the streets. I promise quality and affordable healthcare to all,” she said.

She also promised to ensure young mothers whose studies have been cut short by unexpected pregnancies receive scholarships to continue their education.

Adera pledged to put an end to the rising number of homeless families by ensuring that every Nairobi resident has a home.

In her manifesto, the Kanu candidate also targets the youth, with a promise of appointive positions that will ensure the group is well represented in her leadership.