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ODM in drive to retain South Mugirango seat
- Details
- Published on Friday, 04 June 2010 20:53
Five ministers have pitched tent in South Mugirango to campaign for ODM candidate Ibrahim Ochoi.
The ODM campaign team also comprises MPs and councillors.
The leaders toured polling stations and promised to stay in the constituency until after June 10 while others held closed door meetings with elders and teachers.
Ministers Chris Obure (Public Works), Otieno Kajwang’ (Immigration), James Orengo (Lands), Anyang’ Nyong’o (Medical Services) and Assistant Minister Ayiecho Olweny (Education) led separate teams in campaigns in the constituency.
Mr Obure later held a meeting with elders from Nyamarambe Division while Nyong’o was expected to meet teachers yesterday.
Confidence exuded
Speaking to journalists in Rongo, the ODM leaders said they were taking campaigns to another level and exuded confidence they would clinch the seat.
"We have been consulting with several leaders across the region and we are sending teams to various centres to encourage people to elect our candidate. We know the decision lies with South Mugirango constituents," said Obure.
The ministers asked the security apparatus in the area to provide a level playing ground to all candidates.
"We know this is an ODM seat and we shall retain it. Obure is leading a strong team, but we know the people of South Mugirango have the democratic right to elect a leader of their choice," said Nyong’o.
Speaking at Nyabigege market, Bomachoge MP Simon Ogari urged residents to vote for Ochoi, saying the fact that former MP Omingo Magara had moved to another team does not prevent his friends campaigning against him.
"Magara moved from ODM to an opposing team but that does not prevent us from scoring against that team. He is the one who invited me to ODM and I wonder why he left," said Ogari.
Rangwe MP Martin Ogindo asked constituents to vote in a candidate who would join a winning team.
"We want a humble leader who can work with others and listen to constituents. Be keen to join the winning part of the coalition as you vote," said Mr Ogindo at Nyachenge.
Speaking at Nyango DOK Primary School, Mr Kajwang’ termed Magara’s demand for a direct ticket illegal and against the wishes of South Mugirango constituents.
"My brother wanted a direct ticket, but that is illegal in the ODM constitution and as per the Political Parties Act. Much as he is my friend, I must defend my team. Vote with the future in mind as ODM will form the next Government," he said.
Orengo dismissed Magara’s defection to PDP as inconsequential and took a swipe at the former MP’s development record.
"If you want to see Magara’s face, just look at the state of roads, hospitals and schools around. What he has done is like bragging with suits and nice cars in the city while your mother walks around barefoot," he said.
