Feisal Bader has been officially declared the new Msambweni constituency representative. The unexpected win, given the support ODM controls in the region could offer new realities over the forthcoming BBI referendum – By Gerald Gekara.
Msambweni polls, closely monitored by Uzalendo News under the hashtag #MsambweniDecides was marred by allegations of voter bribery, and intimidation from both parties.
At the height of the elections, Jogoo primary grounds was temporarily closed after residents engaged in fights over alleged malpractises.
However, at 4am the independent candidate who was also a former staffer to the late Suleiman Dori was crowned winner in the contested elections.
Msambweni is part of Kwale County in the costal regions of Kenya. The vote rich region has long been a strong hold of the ODM party, and this surprising defeat could send jitters down the BBI taskforce.
This goes to show that against all odds, Deputy President William Ruto and his ‘wheelbarrow economics’ and politics of inclusion have successfully turned a stronghold in their favour.
None the less, the ODM party has so far swallowed the bitter pill, in a congratulatory message supporting Msambweni, Dabaso and Kisumu North candidates.
“Congratulations to all winners in yesterday’s by elections especially @TheODMparty Candidates in Kisumu North and Dabaso Wards. We came up short in Msambweni and Wundanyi /Mbale but we regroup and forge ahead.Thanks to all our teams everywhere for the great effort.” tweeted ODM.
ODM leader Raila Odinga has so far lost ground to DP Ruto in Embakasi South, Ugenya, Wajir and now Msambweni.
