Youthful city businessman floors big names to win JAP ticket
A Nairobi businessman on Sunday defeated experienced politicians to win the Jubilee Alliance Party (JAP) ticket and become the party’s candidate for the March 7 senatorial by-election.
Mr Aaron Cheruiyot, 30, who was making his first attempt at elective politics, garnered 17,565 votes to beat former Roads minister Franklin Bett, former Energy assistant minister Magerer Langat and former National Housing Corporation chairman Sammy Chepkwony.
Mr Bett got 16,914 votes, followed by Mr Langat with 14,059 and Mr Chepkwony with 12,588.
JAP supporters cast their votes on Saturday and after 12 hours of counting, party Secretary-General Veronica Maina announced at 4am on Sunday that Mr Cheruiyot was the winner.
He is now waiting for other parties to nominate their candidates to know who his opponent will in the by-election.
The seat fell vacant after Mr Charles Keter was appointed the Cabinet secretary for Energy.
Mr Cheruiyot’s victory came as a surprise to many because he was running against aspirants who were believed to have enormous political clout and resources.
“I am honoured that the people of Kericho have entrusted me with the Jubilee ticket despite my young age,” he said in his victory speech after receiving the party’s nomination certificate.
“I promise not to disappoint them during the election and I welcome my fellow aspirants to join me.”
The other candidates all accepted the results and pledged to support Mr Cheruiyot and ensure that Jubilee retains the seat.
