Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga (right) with women leaders from Kisumu county follow proceedings at a stakeholders' forum in the city. Ms Odinga has announced her candidature for the gubernatorial seat. [PHOTO: COLLINS ODUOR/Standard]

KENYA: Kisumu County is headed for a new political battles after Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga declared that she will be going for the governor's seat in the next general elections.

Her announcement comes at a time the county is just settling down following months of power struggle and infighting between Governor Jack Ranguma and Member of the County Assembly.

The wrangles, which toned down after mediation from Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership led by CORD leader Raila Odinga almost paralysed operations in the lakeside city.

Speaking Thursday during a multi-stakeholder forum on the two-thirds gender rule dubbed 'Thuluthi Mbili Za Mama Twazitaka Sasa' Ms Odinga dispelled rumours that she will vie for Kisumu Central parliamentary seat.

"Why would I go for a junior position? I am in the race to become the next governor of the county," she said, but added that for now, she will work closely with Mr Ranguma to ensure they deliver services to the people.

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Ms Odinga asked women leaders who attended the forum to work towards the realisation of two-thirds gender rule, saying women should position themselves to take up elective positions come 2017 general elections.

 SOLIDARITY CALL

"We are not saying that we want women to be nominated. We want them to go for elective positions," she said.

Ms Odinga challenged the Council of Governors to ensure women are represented in gender committees to ensure their interests are well taken care of.

Rosa Buyu, the chairperson of the initiative challenged women to work in unity to ensure they get their demands.

"We should not be fighting one another. This is the time we need to work in solidarity to ensure we attain our demands," she said.

"Even though we are behind schedule, we are setting things up ready to ensure we have a bargaining power," Mr Buru added.

Education and Sports Executive Jennifer Kere cautioned women in leadership positions against constant wrangles, noting that it was derailing development.