Editor's Review

Kakamega Governor-elect Fernandes Barasa has commended former Senator Cleophas Malala for putting up a spirited fight in the gubernatorial race.

Kakamega Governor-elect Fernandes Barasa has commended former Senator Cleophas Malala for putting up a spirited fight in the gubernatorial race.

In a message via Facebook post, Barasa noted that he was willing and open to receiving any input from Malala that would spearhead the transformation of Kakamega County. 

"It is not a contest if you do not have opponents. To our opponents, led by Senator Cleophas Malala, you brought out the best in us. While the best agenda carried the day, our doors will always be open for your input on how to best serve our people.

"I urge our supporters to embrace one another, like brothers and sisters, and together we take Kakamega County forward," Barasa stated. 

Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala.

On the other hand, Malala conceded defeat to Barasa and lauded IEBC for a fair, free and credible election. 

"I congratulate governor-elect, Hon. FCPA. Fernandes Barasa and his team for their win. It is deserved and indisputable. I am ready to offer any part of my manifesto that they may find suitable in their new government for the progress of Kakamega. I also laud IEBC for conducting free, fair, credible and verifiable elections.

"Not all losses are losses, some are lessons. Time is high for Kakamega County residents, regardless of their political side to rally behind the Governor for the county to realize her full socio economic potential. We live to fight another day," the statement reads in part. 

IEBC declared Barasa the winner after he garnered 192,929 votes while Malala bagged 159,508.