This archive report was first published on 27 September 2019.
As the November 7th by-election in Kibra approaches, Jubilee candidate McDonald Mariga is facing a daunting task in drumming up support in the ODM-dominated constituency. According to sources, Mariga's poor performance in door-to-door campaigns has led to a change in strategy, with the party opting for a more comfortable approach.
Instead of venturing into Kibra, DP William Ruto has been hosting Kibra residents at his Karen home in Langata constituency, where they are treated to political handouts. This move is seen as a desperate attempt to win over the hearts of Kibra residents, who are not ready to welcome DP Ruto's entourage given his constant attacks on ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Over the past week, DP Ruto has been embroiled in vicious personal attacks on Raila Odinga, which his advisers have urged him to tone down on. However, DP Ruto's handlers believe that the incessant personal attacks will only galvanize Raila's base in Kibra, leading to a strong rejection of Mariga in the by-election.
It is understood that Mariga's poor performance in door-to-door campaigns was due to his inability to articulate basic issues and engage with Kibra residents. In an effort to improve his public speaking skills, Mariga has undergone a training program, which has been described as 'vicious.'
As the campaigns heat up, it is expected that DP Ruto will restrain himself from attacking Raila Odinga and his public expletives on the ODM. Credible sources also reveal that the DP has reached out to Ford Kenya candidate Butichi, who is expected to endorse Mariga at the homestretch of the campaigns.
