Magerer launches bid for Kericho senatorial seat

Ex-Kipkelion MP Magerer Langat has launched his campaign for the Kericho Senatorial seat on a Jubilee ticket, becoming the first among over 15 hopefuls to do so.

During the function at Moi Gardens on Sunday and which was attended by fellow contestant Paul Tarimbo Chirchir, Mr Langat made public his manifesto.

Mr Langat and Mr Chirchir are part of a group identified as the G4 coalition, which is pushing for a young person to carry the Jubilee flag in the March 7 by-election.

The others are Mr Aaron Cheruiyot and Mr Nelson Koech.

The manifesto outlines plans to push for cheap credit facilities and a better environment for investors as part of efforts to create jobs.

Mr Langat said being senator would give him the chance to expand the development agenda he was known for when he was MP from 2007 to 2013 and Energy assistant minister in the previous government.

“One of the biggest problems facing young people is accessing low interest credit. I will ensure that more avenues for getting loans are made available so that we expand businesses and create jobs,” he said.

He added that he would strive to unite county leaders and push for full devolution and proper use of resources.

Mr Langat condemned exploitation of workers in tea estates owned by local and foreign companies and pledged to fight the vice.

He said tea firms were taking advantage of low literacy levels among pickers to make them work for unusually long working hours and pay little.

“I know tricks used by these companies to deny workers adequate pay and comfortable housing. We can no longer tolerate the abuse of employees,” Mr Langat added.

But even as he launched his candidacy and manifesto, Mr Langat accused some of his competitors of being behind a campaign painting him an opposition mole in Jubilee. He said those behind it were scared by his decision to contest.

He said he was firmly in Jubilee, adding that he would stand with Deputy President William Ruto.