This archive report was first published on 21 September 2019.
ODM Prepares for a Tight Contest in Kibra By-Election ¶
Chama cha ODM has intensified its campaign in Kibra constituency ahead of the by-election, which is expected to be a closely contested race between ODM, Jubilee, and ANC.
According to sources, the party has dispatched its top officials to the area to campaign for its candidate, Imran Okoth.
On September 20, 2019, Governor Hassan Joho and ODM Director of Elections Junet Mohammed joined Imran in canvassing for votes.
It is alleged that the party's strategy is to win over the Muslim community and supporters of Governor Joho to vote for Imran.
ODM's efforts are expected to be matched by Jubilee's candidate, McDonald Mariga, and ANC's Eliud Owalo, making the contest a three-horse race.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has been quoted as saying he is behind Mariga, further indicating the high stakes in the by-election.
Many believe the Kibra by-election is a proxy battle between Deputy President William Ruto and Raila Odinga ahead of the 2022 presidential election.
With President Kenyatta not seeking re-election, his deputy and Raila have become key players in the 2022 presidential election, making the Kibra by-election a crucial test of their strength.
