Businessman fights for Nairobi’s top seat as Kananu, Kagure dig in
City politician Richard Ngatia has stepped up his bid for the Jubilee Party ticket for the Nairobi governorship.
The businessman played a visible role in the events leading to the Azimio La Umoja launch in Nairobi on Friday and has strong ties with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga and nominated MP Maina Kamanda.
Following the deal between Raila’s ODM and the ruling Jubilee Party, Ngatia is said to be keen on the latter’s ticket.
“I have been a member of this party for quite some time now. I believe in its ideologies and that’s why I am working tirelessly to get this ticket,” said Ngatia.
Uphill task
But he has an uphill task as incumbent Governor Ann Kananu and entrepreneur Agnes Kagure are also angling for the Jubilee ticket under the Azimio movement.
Kananu has intensified her campaigns for the ticket. “We have been in this city for quite some time now. We understand what ails the city. There is no way we will allow newcomers to get the Jubilee ticket. Our party leader, who is the President, will ensure the ticket is awarded through merit,” she said.
Nairobi County Assembly Majority Whip Paul Kados said: “Governor Kananu has met some of us to back her candidature. We are still in consultations and will give our position after vetting other candidates.”
Meanwhile, Kagure is focused on engaging city residents in various sub-counties.
“I am keen on solidifying my support. I have been to almost all the wards and I understand Nairobi well. My competitors should focus more on restoring Nairobi to its lost glory; the issue of tickets will come later,” she said.
Ngatia, Kananu and Kagure have been lobbying for President Uhuru Kenyatta’s endorsement.
Yesterday, Kamanda said Jubilee Party had decided to throw its weight behind Ngatia. “We have unanimously agreed to endorse Ngatia as our candidate for the gubernatorial seat. Our party leader will soon officially communicate the same,’’ he said.
However, Jubilee is under Azimio La Umoja, and such an endorsement could stifle the chances of other candidates in the same flagship. Under Azimio, ODM is fronting for Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi.
