BROTHERS BATTLE FOR MCA SEAT IN A LOCAL WARD.

It is at a village called Getare,Muma sub-location, Getenga ward where there is a dramatic twist of sibling rivalry, two brothers, Japhet Maingo and Shem Maingo,  who are planning to vie for the same seat of Member of County Assembly (MCA) in a local ward the year 2027. Japhet, an American resident, returned to Kenya for a month-long holiday to reconnect with the local community and officially announce his candidacy.

 His homecoming ceremony was marked by overwhelming support, with many in the ward showing preference for him over his brother Shem, who resides in Kenya and has long been part of the local political scene.

While Japhet's attraction and promises of transformative leadership gained him widespread popularity, the tensions from unidentified people escalated further when several close supporters of Japhet became victims of alleged destruction. According to multiple reports, unknown individuals destroyed maize plantations belonging to Japhet’s key backers.

One of the affected residents expressed disappointment “We have lived here peacefully, but now political rivalry is bringing division and destruction. This is not the leadership we want.”

Japhet called for calm and urged his supporters not to take revenge, emphasizing the need for unity and peaceful campaigning. "Leadership is about serving people, not dividing them," he said during a phone call.

On additional their father Maingo,in a rare public moment, gave Japhet his blessing to pursue the MCA seat. “I have seen the determination and vision in Japhet, and I believe he is the right choice,” the father said, officially endorsing him for the position

 Despite his years of service, it was clear that their father’s blessing gave Japhet a unique advantage in the eyes of some local voters.

As the election date draws closer, the competition between the Maingo brothers has captivated not just the ward but also sparked debates about the dynamics of family ties in politics.  

STORY BY LEONIDAH MAINGO.