Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold his election saying he will now be able to fully focus on serving local residents.
On Friday, the court struck out a petition filed against Mr. Mvurya’s re-election by three voters namely Suleiman Mwamlole, Mwarapayo Wamwachai and Matsudzo Hamisi.
Speaking at Sabasaba, Matuga Sub-county where he was joined by supporters to celebrate the victory, the governor described the favourable ruling as a great reprieve to him.
Mvurya who vied on a Jubilee ticket after ditching ODM retained his seat, beating Nasa’s Chirau Ali Mwakwere with a huge margin in the last general election. He garnered 119, 680 votes against Mwakwere’s 29, 741.
Mvurya who could not hide his joy said the ruling is an affirmation of the legitimacy of his re-election along with his deputy Ms. Fatuma Achani who was also present.
“It is also a resounding proof that Kwale people have faith in our leadership abilities. Now that the case is behind us we will rededicate ourselves to serving the electorate even better to meet their many expectations,” he promised.
“It is now time to work for the residents who desperately need our services for the remaining duration of our final term,” he added noting that the victory was for all local residents.
He admitted that the petition had weighed heavily on him, having started right from the lower to the highest court in the land.
A political activist Mr. Mshenga Rhuga said the court’s verdict should be respected and not used to create divisions and enmity in the region.
By Shaban Omar and James Muchai
