Shalakha thanks supporters, extends olive branch to rivals after clinching West Kabras UDA ticket

Politician Elphas Shalakha has thanked residents and party members as well as state agencies after emerging as the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate for the forthcoming West Kabras Ward by-election slated for February 26.

In an emotional message just hours following the party nominations, Shalakha expressed gratitude to residents of West Kabras for turning out in large numbers to participate in the exercise, describing the outcome as a strong endorsement of his vision for the ward.

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Shalakha said he was grateful to the people of West Kabras for entrusting him with the UDA ticket promising to emerge victorious at the ballot. 

He said the eminent victory belongs to every voter who believes in his leadership and the future “we want to build together.”.

He also acknowledged his rivals within the ruling party, urging them to rally behind his candidature as the campaign period begins.

“I also want to congratulate all the aspirants under UDA Umbrella and urge them to stand with me for the betterment of our Ward. My gratitude is to the UDA party fraternity for conducting the nomination in a free and fair manner,” he said.

He praised the UDA party leadership for what he termed as a transparent and credible nomination process, saying the exercise reflected the party’s commitment to internal democracy. 

He further commended the local administration and security officers for maintaining order and ensuring a peaceful voting environment.

At the same time, Shalakha struck a conciliatory tone as he reflected on the often tense nature of political competition, apologising to anyone who may have felt aggrieved during the campaign period.

“Politics is not without its challenges. If at any point I crossed paths with anyone in a way that caused discomfort, I ask for forgiveness. We are all human, and our shared goal is to see West Kabras grow,” he said.

With the party ticket secured, Shalakha now turns his focus to the by-election, which will determine the next Member of County Assembly for the ward. 

The by-election was occasioned by the election of then area MCA David Ndakwa as the Malava MP.

Ndakwa has also pledged to throw his weight behind Shalakha in a bid to retain the seat under the Kenya Kwanza fold. 

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