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Magara Must 'Fight for Right' to Stand on ODM Ticket

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Published on Thursday, 31 December 2009 03:13

Nominated MP Musa Sirma on Monday warned that ODM could lose the South Mugirango seat if former MP Omingo Magara is directly nominated.

The MP said the party could only retain the seat by holding a democratic nomination exercise to ensure the most popular candidate was chosen.

Mr Magara lost his seat after the High Court nullified his election following a successful election petition. The ODM treasurer also served as Trade assistant minister.

Mr Sirma said it would be imprudent for the ODM to give him direct nomination despite his position in the party.

"We will be doomed if we do not have proper nominations," said Mr Sirma.

He said that though he sympathised with Mr Magara, the by-election would be a test of the party's popularity.

"It is up to the people there to decide but we hope to get the truth," he said.

Mr Magara has had a frosty relationship with Prime Minister Raila Odinga of late and is perceived as leaning more towards Agriculture minister William Ruto's faction in the party.

Mr Magara has said that will defend his seat on an ODM ticket.