This archive report was first published on 17 September 2019.
On September 16, 2019, Murang'a Senator Irungu Kang'ata made a surprise move by announcing his support for ODM's candidate in the Kibra by-election, Imran Okoth, over Jubilee Party's candidate McDonald Mariga.
Speaking on a political talk show on Citizen TV, Kang'ata explained that his decision was a sentimental one, citing his friendship with the late Ken Okoth, Imran's brother.
“(The late) Ken Okoth was my friend. That’s why I will be supporting his brother (to win the by-elections) because he has been working in Kibra for long and is the best-placed person to continue the legacy. It’s a bit of a sentimental decision,” Kang'ata said.
However, Kang'ata did not clarify the kind of support he will offer to Imran Okoth.
It's worth noting that Kang'ata has also stated that he will not support Deputy President William Ruto's bid to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2022 unless the Head of State asks him to do so.
“In 2022, we will be waiting for President Uhuru Kenyatta to show us the direction (on whom to support). That’s what we will do. Not now, not Tanga Tanga, not Kieleweke,” he said.
