The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Voting is underway in Emurua Dikirr Constituency as 44,353 registered voters head to the polls to elect a new Member of Parliament in a closely watched by-election.
The by-election was triggered by the death of former MP Johana Ngeno, who lost his life alongside five others in a helicopter crash at Chepkiep village in Mosop Sub-county, Nandi County, on February 28.
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The race has drawn significant political interest, with several parties competing for control of the influential constituency. Candidates contesting the seat include David Keter, popularly known as Dollarline, representing UDA; Vincent Rotich of DCP; Gideon Koech of NVP; Desmas Cherono of PNU; and Kenneth Kiprono of RLP.
Election officials distributed voting materials on Tuesday evening from the tallying centre at Emurua Dikirr Technical Training Institute to 94 polling stations spread across the constituency ahead of today’s exercise.
Security has been heightened across the area, with Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr Abdi Hassan assuring residents of adequate protection throughout the voting process. He urged voters to maintain peace and warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the exercise would face firm action.
Returning Officer Caleb Gikonde said polling stations opened at 6am and are expected to close at 5pm. He also noted that security at the tallying centre has been tightened, with only candidates and one authorised agent each allowed entry during vote counting.
The contest between UDA and DCP is being viewed as a political showdown between President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who is associated with DCP.
Political analysts say the outcome could influence political dynamics in the Rift Valley, with Ruto seeking to reinforce his influence in the region while Gachagua aims to expand his support base by tapping into local dissatisfaction over unmet promises.
Religious leaders led by Richard Mutai, chairperson of the Transmara Pastors Association, have called on all parties to uphold peace and comply with IEBC regulations during the exercise.
Residents have also expressed optimism that the election will usher in leadership focused on development and addressing local challenges.
