Kang’ata replaces running mate in last-minute rush to beat IEBC deadline

Murang’a gubernatorial aspirant Dr. Irungu Kang’ata has dropped his proposed running mate, Winfred Mwangi, 53, for 29-year-old Stephen Mburu Munania in a last-minute move to meet the clearance deadline.

Mr. Kang’ata had on Sunday been denied clearance by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission because Dr. Mwangi, a don at the University of Nairobi, failed to resign by the February 9 deadline.

On Monday, Dr. Kang'ata and Dr. Mwangi announced that the resignation issue had been resolved and that he had finally been cleared to run under the UDA party.

However, late into the evening, Kang'ata took to Facebook to announce a new running mate in a post labeled as “a joint press statement” with Dr Mwangi.

“Taking into account this might have been a trap for prolonged litigation that detracts us from campaigning ,we mutually agreed to replace DG,” the statement read in part,”UDA Muranga DG designate now  is Stephen Mburu Munania.”

Both Dr. Mwangi and Mr. Munania hail from Gatanga Sub-county.

Mr. Munania is a degree holder in International Diplomacy and has previously worked as an Assistant County Commissioner Cadet in Kenol.

He lost in Kariara ward UDA primaries to Jeremy Gichobe Mbatia.

"UDA picked him to represent the marginalised youth and brings public administration experience into county management," they added.

Dr. Kang’ata however noted that Dr. Mwangi will remain “part and parcel of the UDA Muranga chapter.”

“She will continue to offer her services as an expert in land matters. She will head our UDA campaigns,” the statement added.

“We forgive those that breached her privacy.We hope to transit with her into county government leadership come August 2022.”