Lawyer George Kithi urges Magarini voters to reject external influence as IEBC readies November 27 by-elections

Former Kilifi gubernatorial candidate Lawyer George Kithi wants Magarini voters to reclaim their voice.

Mr Kithi, who in 2022 secured roughly 22.68 percent of the vote under the Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) ticket, says voters must choose wisely in the forthcoming Magarini Constituency by-election

In a statement, Mr Kithi said the November 27 poll offers the people of Magarini a rare opportunity to choose leadership grounded in local realities.

He warned that external forces often use the constituency as a stepping-stone for broader political ambitions.

“This by-election must not be another chance for others to speak for Magarini. It must be Magarini speaking for itself,” Mr Kithi said.

“Shun external pressure. Shun intimidation. Shun political brokers whose interest ends the moment campaigns are over.”

Magarini’s current vacancy follows the nullification of MP Harrison Garama Kombe’s 2022 election win.

Mr Kombe now faces a repeat contest in the seat that pundits say has become a battleground for national-level influence in the Coast region.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has cleared several candidates to contest the seat, including Mr Stanley Kenga (DCP), Mr Furaha Chengo (DNA), Dr Hamadi Karisa Chadi (Roots Party), Mr John Sulubu (Kenya Social Congress), Mr Emmanuel Kalama (The We Alliance) and Mr Samuel Nzai (Independent).

With Mr Kombe running under the ODM banner, the field is stacked, and the political stakes are high.

Analysts say the outcome will not only shape Magarini’s future, but signal which parties and coalitions are gaining momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Mr Kithi emphasized the importance of leadership that engages, listens and delivers--not one shaped by external agendas.

“What the people of Magarini need is a representative for development, protection of local priorities, and one to foster change,” he said.

“This time, elect leadership that will engage, listen, and deliver.”