Former Cherang’any Constituency Member of Parliament Wesley Korir has presented his nomination papers for the Trans Nzoia County Assembly Speaker position.

Korir, who enjoys the support of 22 Kenya Kwanza Alliance Members of County Assembly, is joining a crowded race that has so far attracted 14 aspirants.

Addressing the media after submitting his papers to the clerk of the assembly, Korir said he is banking on his five years of legislative experience to lead the highly cosmopolitan assembly.

“I am very confident that the majority of the MCAs will vote for me based on my manifesto for the county assembly of Trans Nzoia and my experience as a lawmaker; we are sure of winning this contest in round one,” Korir said.

The marathoner said he will also strike a balance between the legislative and the executive arms so that the people of Trans Nzoia can enjoy the fruits of devolution.

“I know the speaker’s role is majorly to moderate debates in the assembly, I will ensure that the MCAs do their oversight role while having a cordial relationship with the executive led by our Governor George Natembeya,” he added.

Kefa Were, the MCA of Kapomboi ward said all Kenya Kwanza Alliance MCASs have resolved to rally behind Korir.

“We have listened to all the people who want to be the third speaker of this assembly but none of them has convinced us apart from Wesley Korir. All the MCAs who were elected through UDA, FORD Kenya, and ANC will vote as a block,” Were said.

Tabitha Waruguru, a nominated MCA, expressed confidence that their candidate will take care of their welfare and ensure the smooth running of the assembly.

Her sentiments were echoed by Matisi ward MCA Obed Mwale who said they will not be compromised to vote for any other candidate.

Waitaluk ward MCA Furaha Lusweti said the legislative house will do its oversight, legislation and representation roles without coercion.

“The first two assemblies did not do their work as expected; our main agenda will be to oversight the executive so that it delivers its manifesto to the people of Trans Nzoia.

Others in the race are former speaker Joshua Werunga, Edward Waswa, Daniel Kaburu, Edwin Bwanamo, Walubengo Waningilo, David Sifuna, Edel Fuchaka, Dennis Chemao, Philemon Ng’etich, Julius Mbagaya, Emmanuel Wanjala, Andrew Wanyonyi and Patrick Kamwessar.

Thirty-three MCAs are expected to take an oath of office on Tuesday 22 September 2022 and thereafter elect their speaker and deputy speaker.