This archive report was first published on 26 August 2019.
On August 25, 2019, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party held a rally at Kamkunji Grounds to unveil aspirants contesting for the Kibra Parliamentary seat. The rally was attended by Right Hon. Raila Odinga and other ODM party officials.
During the rally, Raila allowed the 24 aspirants to introduce themselves and sell their policies to the residents who turned out in huge numbers. In his remarks, Raila also ruled out a direct nomination for its candidate for the November 7 Kibra Constituency by-election, saying the interested candidates will undergo primaries scheduled on 31st August.
However, the rally sparked a heated exchange between fiery lawyer Dr. Miguna Miguna and ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna. Miguna took to Twitter to advise Kibra residents to choose a worthy successor to the late Ken Okoth, urging them to avoid opportunistic individuals.
“To my brothers, sisters and compatriots in Kibra: Your departed member of parliament, Ken Okoth, was a visionary, disciplined and committed human being with integrity. He was born, grew up and represented you as one of you. Don’t elect opportunists like Edwin Sifuna and Ongoro,” read part of Miguna’s tweet.
Responding to the tweet, Sifuna seemed offended by Miguna’s remarks and reminded him that he was not part of the race and neither was Ongoro. However, Miguna did not budge, claiming that Sifuna had previously given his name to the press that he was an interested party in the race.
“Trying to run” is what you did in 2017. When I want something I’ll say it myself, not through media. Plus lessons are welcome, I’m still teachable. You are unwell. Just take your prescriptions so you don’t see my ghost everywhere,” clarified Sifuna.
