Kirinyaga senatorial race tightens as more entrants emerge

Stage for a tough political battle for the Kirinyaga senatorial seat is set following the entry of four more aspirants into the crowded race.

A former banker Dishon Kirima and the region's Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) executive secretary Harrison Gichira , Elias Ng'ang'a (computer scientist) as well as a financial consultant, Mr J K Karimi have thrown their hats in the ring.

The four have been cleared by the Jubilee Party and are now ready for the crowded race.

The aspirants will face the incumbent, Daniel Karaba, Joseph Mwaniki (land economist) and the chief executive officer of Thika Greens, Charles Kibiru in the August elections.

While declaring their bids separately on Saturday, they all said they had what it takes to clinch the position.

Except Mr Kirima and Mwaniki, the other aspirants are first-timers in politics.

Mr Kirima and Mr Mwaniki vied for the seat in 2013 and lost to Mr Karaba who was once the Kirinyaga Central MP and the chairman of Central Kenya headteacher's association.

Speaking to the Nation in Kerugoya town, Mr Kirima vowed to give his opponents a run for their money.

Mr Kirima exuded confidence that he will win the senatorial seat and told his opponents to be ready for a bruising political battle.

"In 2013 polls I was ranked position two and this time I must floor all my opponents," he said.

Mr Gichira said he had been involved in the region's politics for long adding that he was confidenct that he will emerge victor.

"I have won the post of Knut executive secretary in the entire region twice now. I also campaigned for various politicians in 2013 polls and they won. I have learnt the winning tricks and I will beat all my opponents," said Mr Gichira.