Journalist Makali joins race for Bungoma senatorial position

BY ROBERT WANYONYI and DANIEL PSIRMOI

Bungoma County: The Bungoma senatorial contest began taking shape after a career journalist threw his hat in the ring as an independent candidate.

Speaking during a ceremony to launch his campaigns Mr David Makali said he hoped to bring fresh leadership to Bungoma, a county troubled by years of incessant wrangles among the political class that has perpetuated poverty.

“I spearhead the change and I am asking the people of Bungoma to stand with me. We want to end this violence and usher our county into a new era of political harmony, peace and development. We do not need hooligans or force people to agree with us through batons and flying chairs,” said Makali.

Meanwhile, Musikari Kombo’s bid to capture the seat got a boost after Mt Elgon MP John Serut endorsed him for the position.

Speaking at the weekend in Cheptais during a meeting with educational stakeholders and members of the public, Serut said he would mobilise votes for Kombo from his constituents and from his Jubilee allied colleagues from the county, as Kombo’s development record, especially in Mt Elgon is impressive and speaks for itself.

Kombo, who was present and flanked by New Ford Kenya party leader Eugene Wamalwa and Bungoma County Woman representative Dr Reginalda Wanyonyi, welcomed the endorsement and said he will do more for the people of Mt Elgon if they elect him to office.

Kombo scoffed at those viewing the polls as a test for Luhya unity and observed that the county is cosmopolitan.

“It’s not about Luhya unity; Sabaot, a sub tribe of the Kalenjin and other tribes, reside in Bungoma too. It will be unfair if they are locked out,” said Kombo who revealed that each of the communities residing in the county will get a piece of the development cake if he ascends to office.

Wamalwa asked the residents to elect Kombo for their own good.