By Sefu Sabila, DevReporter, Trans Nzoia
Independent candidates form the largest portion in the forthcoming elections. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) cleared 7,111 independent candidates to run for elective posts.
In a past interview, the Registrar of Political Parties, Anne Nderitu, had indicated that many independent candidates would be on the ballot for the August elections.
Indeed, after losing out in party nominations, many aspirants opted to go independent, with this category now forming the largest “political party”. For example, the number of independent candidates vying for the MCA position stands at 5,765.
Lucky Ajegah, an independent candidate for the MCA race in Matisi ward, cites frustrations, minimal resources, lack of democracy and costly primaries as among the reasons why many aspirants choose to go independent.
“[Political] Parties have largely remained as briefcase parties running expensive primaries, which are manipulated with the highest bidder favoured by the party leadership. The tickets are bought instead of being contested for. The rich always have their way. That’s the reason many of us went independent. ” He explained.
Mr. Ajegah contends that independent Candidates are now becoming a threat to seasoned political parties and are also popular among voters, since running for this position is pocket friendly and also gives the voters an opportunity to choose who they want.
“In the recent times, independent candidates have become popular and strong. Surprisingly, what many people do not consider is that running as an independent candidate is more economical. Parties have become a den of tribalism and biasness. Going independent also gives voters leeway.” He further explained.
According to him, there will be fewer fights between governors and MCAs, since independent MCAs are more likely to hold independent opinions free from manipulation by parties, and thus the interests of the mwanachi will be attained.
” If elected, working with the governor for instance, will be smooth. This is so, since the views presented will be independent of any negation by parties or leadership of the party. Thus addressing the pleas and plights of people will be on course.” He opined.
Rakel Amollo, a resident of Site and Service in Tuwan ward, indicates that candidates from the dominant political parties have for the last 10 years not shown any tangible evidence of work achieved on behalf of the residents. He concluded that it was time for independent candidates to take leadership.
“We as the people of Site and Service, were sidelined in development matters by the MCAs elected to represent us in the last two elections. For example, during this period, the area that was proposed for a dispensary is still fenced with no work having been started. We are going to vote for a MCA who will consider our interests and not only those of political parties. I’m looking for someone who will bring development without being biased, and this is the reason I will be voting for an independent candidate. Independent candidates are a threat to aspirants representing big parties. I think this is healthy competition. ” She said.
