Politics of clan won’t kill my governor bid, vows ODM’s Mbadi
By Noven Owiti, July 6, 2021
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) national chairman John Mbadi has asked Homa Bay residents to vote in visionary and development-oriented leaders for governor in 2022.
Mbadi, who is among the contenders seeking to succeed Governor Cyprian Awiti, claimed that some politicians are mobilising residents along their clans and regions to influence voting patterns.
He said such schemes will not stop his ambition.
He was speaking at Magunga market at the weekend while inspecting ongoing construction of Mbita-Sindo-Magunga-Sori road at the weekend.
The Suba South MP said politics of clannism is unhealthy, as it cannot help in transforming the region.
“Our people should choose to vote for someone who has their interests at heart.
Do not be duped to elect a person from your clan then continue suffering due to stagnation in development,” he said.
He cautioned residents against being hoodwinked by populist politics, saying locals often decry poor service delivery hence the 2022 election presents an opportunity to make a change.
“Homa Bay people must no longer gamble with the leadership if they want real transformation,” he added.
Prior to the 2013 General Election, leaders, including Awiti and the late Senator Otieno Kajwang’ allegedly agreed on an election pact that saw the county divided into regional power sharing blocs.
Awiti, who hails from Rachuonyo took the governor seat, Kajwang from Suba took the senator’s seat while Homa Bay region produced the Woman Rep and deputy governor.
But Mbadi said he will not withdraw his ambition because of clan factor.
He said his interest to become governor in the forthcoming election is driven by the development agenda he has for the people.
He said he had set up water points, opened up and improved access roads and built more schools during his tenure as MP.