The announcement came shortly after Moi held a series of private meetings with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
According to KANU Secretary General George Wainaina, the decision was reached after “lengthy consultations” aimed at promoting unity and peace in the region.
According to KANU Secretary General George Wainaina, the decision was reached after “lengthy consultations” aimed at promoting unity and peace in the region.
He added that KANU would not field another candidate, leaving the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) aspirant, Kiprono Cheburet Chemitei, and a few others to continue in the race.
Sources close to the discussions revealed that President Ruto personally appealed to Moi to step aside for the UDA candidate in order to avoid political divisions within the county.
Sources close to the discussions revealed that President Ruto personally appealed to Moi to step aside for the UDA candidate in order to avoid political divisions within the county.
This marks a rare political truce between two leaders who have previously faced off in fierce elections.
The withdrawal, however, sparked mixed reactions in Baringo. Supporters who had gathered at Kabarnet Airstrip expecting Moi to submit his nomination papers were left disappointed.
The withdrawal, however, sparked mixed reactions in Baringo. Supporters who had gathered at Kabarnet Airstrip expecting Moi to submit his nomination papers were left disappointed.
Others interpreted the move as a sign of maturity and a willingness to prioritize the county’s peace over rivalry.
Earlier last week, KANU had unveiled Moi as its flagbearer for the by-election, promising to deliver “visionary and people-centered leadership.”
Earlier last week, KANU had unveiled Moi as its flagbearer for the by-election, promising to deliver “visionary and people-centered leadership.”
Just a day before Moi’s announcement, UDA candidate Chemitei’s convoy was allegedly confronted by a group of agitated KANU supporters in Kabarnet.
Reports indicated that Chemitei had to use a helicopter to reach the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) center safely to present his nomination papers.
The Baringo Senatorial seat became vacant after the death of Senator William Cheptumo in February this year.
The Baringo Senatorial seat became vacant after the death of Senator William Cheptumo in February this year.
Cheptumo, who had defeated Gideon Moi in the 2022 General Election, passed away while receiving treatment at the Nairobi Hospital.
KANU, in a brief statement after Moi’s exit, said the decision was made “in the interest of peace and cooperation.”
KANU, in a brief statement after Moi’s exit, said the decision was made “in the interest of peace and cooperation.”
Political observers now say the move could open a new chapter in the relationship between the ruling UDA party and KANU, which has long positioned itself as an opposition force.
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