Presidential Candidates Given Until April 28th to Name Their Running Mates

Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) says presidential candidates have until April 28th to submit the names of their running mates.

IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati told The Star that the commission expects political parties to submit the names of their presidential candidates and running mates on the said date.

The same applies to those seeking to run for the presidency as independent candidates in the August 9th elections.

“We expect to know their running mates on the date when they submit names of the nominated candidates…either themselves as independent candidates or through the party, if a political party candidate, this being April 28th,” Chebukati said.

The two leading candidates, ODM leader Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto are yet to settle on their running mates, less than four months to the general election.

The choice of a running mate is a big headache for both candidates, with each keen to pick someone who will bring them more votes. 

Odinga, 77, is eyeing the country’s top seat under the Azimio-One Kenya coalition, which brings together over 20 political parties among them ODM, Jubilee, Wiper, Nark-Kenya, and Kanu.

Some of the leaders who have been touted as potential running mates for Raila include Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Nark-Kenya’s Martha Karua, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, and former Gatanda MP Peter Kenneth.

On the other hand, ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro are among potential running mates for Ruto.

Ruto, 55, is seeking the presidency through the Kenya Kwanza alliance that comprises 12 parties including UDA, ANC, and Ford-Kenya.