Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero has been officially permitted to contest the Homa Bay governorship as an independent candidate in the August 9 polls, according to political registration authorities.
Kidero, a former member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), lost party affiliation after the ODM leadership awarded the gubernatorial nomination to Homa Bay Women Representative Gladys Wanga. The decision followed internal party disputes over ticket allocation.
Registrar of Political Parties Ann Nderitu confirmed Kidero's independent status in a statement citing constitutional and legal provisions. 'Pursuant to Article 85 of the Constitution and Section 34(fa) of the Political Parties Act, 2011, Evans Odhiambo Kidero is not a member of any registered political party,' the declaration stated.
The ODM's choice of Wanga came amid polling data showing Kidero leading in the race. A March 2022 survey by Mizani Africa placed Kidero at 44.1% support, compared to Wanga's 21.6% and former Kasipul Kabondo Oyugi Magwanga at 15.3%. A December 2021 poll had previously predicted Wanga would defeat Kidero.
Other candidates in the race include Isaiah Ogwe (2.5%), Hamilton Orata (1.6%), and Akelo Misori (0.4%), according to the latest survey results.
