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Dennis Lumiti  

Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malalah has formally joined the race to succeed Governor Wycliffe Oparanya in next year’s General Election.

Malalah said he would contest the seat, effectively ending speculation about his political ambitions.

“I will contest the Kakamega governor seat next year. I am equal to the task and I am confident of victory,” he said.

Speaking yesterday, Malalah said he was satisfied with his performance as a senator and that he was now mature enough to manage affairs of the county.

The senator had never gone public about his ambitions to succeed Oparanya leaving the issue to speculations.

His declaration will have far-reaching political implications in Kakamega.

For instance, the senator will now battle for the Amani National Congress ticket with Lugari MP Ayub Savula, who was viewed as the automatic party candidate.

Savula welcomed Malalah’s announcement and promised him “a battle royale”.

“He is free to contest for any seat, including the governorship. But I promise him a tough battle for the ANC ticket,” said Savula.

Ten aspirants have so far declared interest in the seat, with a majority eyeing the ANC ticket.