A Member of Parliament torn between city politics and the leadership of the Abagusii Community on Monday morning told off critics over claims that his marital affair deemed him unfit to lead.
Dagoretti North MP Simba Arati, in an interview at Milele FM, admitted that it is indeed a fact that he married from Asia, giving credit to the rumour that his wife was Chinese.
Arati stated that his Asian wife had nothing to do with his leadership both at the local level and in Nairobi where he is eyeing taking over City Hall after Governor Mike Sonko in 2022.
"I married from Asia but these are private family matters. Whether my wife is from Thailand, China, Europe or wherever, it has not affected my ability to lead and deliver for the people. Obama's father was a Kenyan and that did not stop him from being the US President," stated Arati.
He went on to state that the several incidences critics have disqualified him as the spokesperson of the Abagusii community did not matter, saying it is not mandatory that he marries one of their own for him to fit in the leadership role.
"I was confirmed as the official spokesperson for my community. I will continue leading the people and will be the voice of my people in Nairobi, Kisii, Nyamira or wherever they are, even those living abroad. That means we will always discuss and will tell the people how we can move forward as a united front," insisted Arati.
In the recent past, Arati has been reported to have the backing of a number of elected leaders in Kisii County as a perfect pick to take over the county leadership from Governor James Ongwae.
He is, however, sceptical about the move, as he admits to being familiar with the politics in Nairobi and more popular in the city than back at home.
"It is here in Nairobi that I have done a lot for the people. I have a good understanding of how politics is played in Nairobi. In 2022, be it Nairobi or Kisii, I shall be the governor but the decision will be made at that time," held Simba Arati.
