Defections watch 2017
Politicians have started defecting to join parties on which they plan to seek their nomination in the August 8 elections.
The defections have been precipitated by new timelines published by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) that require those interested in political seats to join their parties between February 9 and March 9.
DEFECTORS’ LIST
February 17, 2017: Migori Senator Wilfred Machage leaves the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to join the Democratic Party (DP).
Mr Machage is now eying the Kuria West parliamentary seat.
February 17, 2017: Tharaka-Nithi Governor Samuel Ragwa and other leaders decamp from Jubilee to Martha Karua’s Narc-Kenya party.
Defectors say there are clear indications that Jubilee nominations will not be free and fair.
February 14, 2017: Several aspirants for various seats from Tharaka-Nithi County join Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua's Maendeleo Chap Chap party.
February 13, 2017: Former Nyaribari MP and UN Habitat envoy Sam Ongeri, defects from Jubilee to ODM.
Received by ODM leader Raila Odinga at Gusii Stadium.
February 11, 2017: Former Kenyan ambassador to Tanzania Chirau Mwakwere defects from Jubilee to ODM.
Mr Mwakwere was officially received into the party by Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho.
He is eyeing the Kwale governor’s seat.
February 9, 2017: More than 10 Mombasa MCAs defect from ODM to the Wiper Democratic Movement.
February 6, 2017: Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti defects from Jubilee to o Maendeleo Chap Chap party, citing perceived favouritism in Jubilee Party.
Mr Kivuti is eying the Embu governor’s seat.
February 2, 2017: Former assistant minister Kilemi Mwiria ditches Jubilee and joins Maendeleo Chap Chap and announces will vie for the Meru governorship on the party’s ticket.
January 28, 2017: Mombasa Deputy Governor Hazel Katana defects from ODM to Jubilee.
She becomes the first deputy governor to defect.
Ms Katana said she had experienced unimaginable tribulations under Governor Hassan Joho.
