A rift is simmering between United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and its close ally People Empowerment Party (PEP) over the Kiambaa by elections slated for July 5, this year.
This is after both parties expressed interest to field candidates but none of the affiliates is willing to back out of the race in favour of the other.
UDA has unveiled John Njuguna Wanjiku to fly the party’s flag, while PEP is set to unveil its candidate next week on Tuesday, in what looks like a move to grant Jubilee a smooth sail.
According to PEP party leader Moses Kuria, PEP would field a candidate for Kiambaa, unlike in Muguga Ward, Kabete Constituency, where it will support UDA’s Kamau Thumbi
“We will battle other parties, as this does not amount to enmity but we will agree to work with likeminded parties for a win,” said Kuria.
The two parties have been complimenting each other in the recently concluded by-elections in Rurii, (Nyandarua) and Juja constituency with their success boosting their confidence in fielding candidates in the upcoming by-elections.
The leader, who spoke in Sipili, Laikipia County when he joined other leaders during the burial of the Public Service Commission Chair, the Late Stephen Kirogo, regretted that his party had agreed with UDA to relinquish Rurii and Muguga Wards for UDA, urging Kiambaa electorates to prepare for a PEP candidate.
While backing National Assembly’s Majority Leader Amos Kimunya in his sentiments that UDAs win in Rurii, was Jubilee’s, the Gatundu legislature noted that UDA was an affiliate of Jubilee.
He regretted that Jubilee was ‘sick’ and needed medical attention that he was ” not a doctor to diagnose and treat but a technical member.”
“The only problem is that Kimunya has not resigned as Majority leader as he had vowed. We are only waiting for his resignation to reinstate Adan Duale (Garissa),” remarked Kuria.
Jubilee opted to conduct interviews instead of holding nominations, with candidates expected to be interviewed today (Saturday) for the Kiambaa and Muguga by elections.
By Anne Sabuni
