Police block a supporter of ODM candidate from accessing Bonchari CDF hall. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]
Aspirants have been meeting supporters in small groups at their respective homes while others have been holding door-to-door campaigns.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has warned Bonchari by-election candidates against holding campaigns ahead of the mini polls in line with Covid-19 containment measures announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta recently.
On March 12, Uhuru in his presidential address banned all political gatherings, including campaigns at least for the next 60 days.
A total of 13 candidates have been cleared with IEBC Constituency Returning officer Benson Ambua expressing optimism the polls will be successful despite the Covid-19 pandemic challenges.
Ambua said the commission expects the candidates to meet their end of the bargain by ensuring they respect measures put in place to curb the spread of coronavirus. He also said the Commission will take action against any of the candidates who violate the measures.
Several of the aspirants have been meeting their supporters in small groups at their respective homes while others have been holding door to door campaigns.
The by-election is slated for May 18. The seat fell vacant on February 15 this year following the demise of MP John Oroo Oyioka.
The by-election is, however, viewed as a three-horse race between Jubilee, ODM and UDA. “Covid-19 has presented us with tough and trying moments. We are no longer carrying out the usual campaigns but we will do all we can to reach out to our supporters,” said Teresa Bitutu, vying for the seat on UDA ticket
