United Democratic Alliance (UDA) received a major boost in its quest to retain the Garissa Township parliamentary seat, that was previously held by Aden Duale.
Wiper candidate, Abdirizak Sirat, who was to vie in the forthcoming mini polls stepped down in favour of UDA's Mohamed Barrow Dekow.
Defending his withdrawal from the race, Sirati explained that his Abduwak clan settled on Dekow for the January 5 by-election, prompting him to accept the decision.
“By today I was to clear with Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC) to vie for MP, but because of family affairs and its unity, I have decided to step down.”
“I declare my support to Mohammed Barrow Dekow and I wish him favour that he clinches the seat.” Sirat announced on Wednesday, December 7.
Members of the clan welcomed his decision, with the spokesperson indicating that it was in the best interest of the locals.
"Sirat has decided to shelve his political ambitions, and we are now united behind Barrow,” a clan spokesperson announced.
On his part, Dekow remarked, “I want to sincerely thank my brother Sirat for stepping down and supporting my candidature.”
Barrow’s candidature sparked mixed reactions after he was endorsed by Defence Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale.
It emerged that Barrow was Duale’s brother-in-law and landing a direct ticket by UDA was contrary to the party’s criticism of the opposition rewarding relatives with party positions.
Apart from Garissa Township, by-elections will also be conducted in Kandara for the parliamentary seat and Elgeyo Marakwet for the senatorial position.
The seats fell vacant after Duale, Alice Wahome of Kandara and Kipchumba Murkomen of Elgeyo Marakwet were appointed to the cabinet to head Defense, Water and transport ministries, respectively.
