Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has hinted that governing United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party will hold party primaries for the imminent Baringo County senatorial by-elections soon.

Prof Kindiki who spoke during an economic empowerment engagement in Kabarnet and Kabartonjo of Baringo County allayed fears that the ruling party may handpick a candidate to contest for the seat which fell vacant following the demise of William Cheptumo.

He assured members of the party of a free and fair nomination when the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) shall announce the official election dates.

“We will do a free and fair nominations and the one who will have gotten the ticket, we shall all support,” he told the electorates.

The DP who was flanked by a host of leaders from Rift Valley and beyond encouraged the aspirants who will be vying under the UDA ticket to sell their manifestos to the electorates with respect and decorum.

His sentiments were echoed by senate majority leader Aaron Cheruiyot who said that the party is ready and only awaiting IEBC to set an election date after which they will begin registering its candidates to compete in the nominations.

Cheruiyot exuded confidence that UDA will carry the day, noting that it will show respect to President William Ruto who has continued to spearhead several development projects in the region. The majority leader, at the same time urged all aspirants and residents to rally behind the UDA candidate who will emerge winner in the nominations.

The seat has so far attracted over 10 aspirants which includes parastatal directors Reuben Chepsongol (KVDA), Sylus Tochim (Tourism board) and former tourism fund chief executive officer Joseph Cherutoi.

The youthful debutants are Wycliffe Tobole, Kiprono Chemitei, Daniel Kiptoo, Evans Mundulel and Linus Kamket who have all declared they will vie under UDA ticket.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Benson Kelio