Veteran Taveta politician Naomi Shaban concedes defeat
Taveta Member of Parliament Naomi Shaban has conceded defeat after a failed attempt to defend her seat.
According to the veteran politician, provisional results indicate that Wiper party candidate Bwire Okanao has opened a wide lead over her.
Shaban, who was seeking a fifth term in office on the ruling Jubilee party ticket, has since congratulated the opponent for the imminent victory.
"Good people, there is time for everything. Well done team Bwire," the Jubilee Deputy Party Leader said in a WhatsApp group.
"Thank you for giving me a chance to serve you for 20 years. My young brother Okano, I congratulate you."
The 58-year-old first vied for the seat in 2002, unseating former MP Basil Criticos.
The legislator had in June expressed confidence that she would emerge victorious in the hotly contested race.
“My achievements speak volumes and I don’t think Taveta people will risk voting for another person. But we are in a democratic space. Anyone is welcome to challenge me, but I know I will emerge winner in the August 9, General Election,” a confident Shaban said.
Other candidates in the race are Didas Mzirai (United Democratic Alliance UDA), Morris Mutiso (ODM) and Kangethe Muutu (Independent).
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is expected to release the official results of the Taveta MP poll on Wednesday, August 10.
