Names of possible running mates to Raila Odinga picked by Azimio selection panel

The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Running Mate selection panel has released the first batch of names of the shortlisted candidates for the position of Raila Odinga’s running mate.

The panel, through its chairperson Noah Wekesa released a statement on Friday updating the public on the ongoing search for the Azimio presidential running mate.

According to the panel, it was in receipt of 20 applications from parties that expressed their interest in the position.

“The Committee of Eminent Persons that is mandated with the search for a suitable candidate to be the running mate for the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Alliance Presidential Candidate received 20 applications in response to the invitation for expression of interest,” the statement read.

The committee has concluded the first shortlist and picked 7 names of individuals who were nominated by their respective political parties under the Azimio banner.

The following are the names of candidates who were shortlisted in the first batch:

Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka - Wiper Party

Sabina Chege - Jubilee Party

Martha Wangari Karua - NARC-Kenya

Peter Kenneth - Jubilee Party

Gideon Kipsiele Moi - KANU

Ali Hassan Joho - ODM

Stephen Kipkiyeny Tarus - National Liberal Party

However, the committee rejected the names of 13 applicants because parties outside the Azimio coalition submitted them.

“The rest 13 applications were not considered as they had not been submitted by the constituent political parties of the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Alliance Coalition,” the statement read.

The debate around running mates is continuing to cause tension in all the political formations, as it is not clear which candidates will be picked for the position by any faction.

So far, only The Roots Party has named its presidential running mate.