Pure class — Kenyans laud Mariga’s gentleman’s gesture after defeat

ODM’s Imran Okoth is the new MP-elect for Kibra constituency and Jubilee Party candidate McDonald Mariga wasted no time in congratulating him for his victory.

Through a video that went viral on Thursday night, Mariga rang Okoth to concede defeat and promised to avail himself incase Okoth needed his help.

“Hello boss, this is Mariga, I have called to congratulate you. It was a good race. We did not fight. I am ready for lunch and talk on how we can work together,” said Mariga.

The video was also shared by his brother Victor Wanyama and Kenyans were more than impressed by Mariga’s gesture after the loss.

In most instances, election losers cry foul after results are announced and often blame underhand tactics for their fall.

Mariga did not engage in any of this, prompting Kenyans to praise him for being a gentleman.

Here are some of the reactions:

Everlyn Guda: Nice gesture ... there is always next time my friend

Shahidi Forkfear: Thats a good gesture master.you've proved very many people wrong.there's always a next time.

Bett Kipyegon: How I wish others can emulate this,others could have been thinking of mass demonstration, going to court etc.congratulations boss

Sophie Aymar: Blessed bingwa.that's the Spirit u have shown all Kenyans how to concede a defeat is done professionally

Greys Silver: Hats off for your bro..he has demonstrated leadership. I really wanted him to win this... but he lives to fight another day.

Young Wa Chora: A true sportsman with a gentleman's attitude,Congratulations are in order to Mariga.... doing what he did in someone's bedroom wasn't an easy ride

Mutuku Jonns: That was classy!He did well in his debut and on very hostile ground. Hio nikama ile game mlicheza na Bayern Juzi