Raila has sharply cut the gap with Uhuru in the presidential election race, according to the latest opinion poll from the Radio Africa Group.

In the survey, 40 percent of respondents said they would vote for Raila Odinga, the Nasa flagbearer, if the presidential election were held today. Yet in the last Radio Africa poll in March, just 24 percent said they would vote for Raila as president.

In March President Uhuru Kenyatta had 51 percent support but this dropped slightly to 49 percent in May. Raila seems to have picked up his extra support from the Undecideds who dropped from 20 percent in March to 10 percent in May.

Read: Uhuru maintains lead over Raila

So Raila is now just 9 percent behind Uhuru in the presidential race, having languished far behind in the opinion polls for the last two years. At times Raila was down to 26 percent support while Uhuru was at 56 percent support.

This is the first opinion poll since Raila was endorsed as the Nasa candidate for president at a rally in Uhuru Park in Nairobi on 27 April, bringing to an end months of speculation on who the Nasa presidential nominee would be.

His running mate will be Kalonzo Musyoka while Deputy President William Ruto will be the running mate of Uhuru.

Read: Why the only way is up for Raila’s ratings

The Radio Africa poll was conducted by Computer Aided Telephone Interview (CATI) between May 2 and 14 with 3,430 respondents over 18 years in 28 counties. The poll carries a 1.7 percent margin of error with a 95 percent confidence level.

Radio Africa and the Star will be conducting monthly polls on the presidential race until the election on August 8.

Those saying they are registered to vote has climbed from 87 percent in January to 98 percent today.

Interestingly Uhuru and Raila are running neck and neck with male voters where they each have 46 percent support with 7 percent undecided. But Uhuru is more popular with women as 51 percent of female respondents say they would vote for him, compared to 42 percent for Raila while 7 percent remain undecided.

Jubilee leads overall with 51 percent support compared to 42 percent for Nasa and 7 percent undecided.

But for parliamentary elections, there is a huge risk factor for both political groupings as 57 percent of respondents said they would be willing to vote for independent candidates, irrespective of party affiliation. Only 37 percent said they would not be willing to vote for an independent. The next president may find it difficult to carry legislation through Parliament if their political blocs are weak and if there are many independent members.

Uhuru's strongest counties were Nyandarua (97 percent) and Muranga (94 percent) where Raila had virtually zero support. Raila's strongest counties were Siaya (90 percent) and Homa Bay (91 percent) where Uhuru had negligible support.

In contested areas, Kisii (73-19 percent) appeared strongly for Raila while he also led Uhuru in Garissa ( 50-35 percent) and Kilifi (47-36 percent).

Uhuru was still well ahead of Raila in Bomet (71-28 percent) and Narok (67-33 percent) where Nasa had hoped to make gains.

In Nairobi, Uhuru had a clear lead over Raila (49-37 percent).

Experts believe that the small gap between Uhuru and Raila makes the vote of swing regions like Kisii and the diaspora much more important.

Both leading coalitions have mapped their strongholds and battlegrounds, the latter being regions where support is not guaranteed, but whose vote could tilt the election outcome.

Read: Jubilee maps strongholds, battle zones

More: Cord Zones Kenya Ahead of 2017 Elections

There are 19 million total registered voters. Both Nasa and Jubilee say they are targeting between 10 and 11 million votes for a clean round one victory.

A woman who kept a large mysterious bird that refused to eat the huge ugali she prepared for it wants KWS to refund her.

Panic gripped residents of Garage township in Wanyororo Bahati, Nakuru, when the bird fell to the ground after being electrocuted on Wednesday evening.

Locals found the white bird that resembles a heron at around 6pm.

Its presence in the area attracted a large crowd yet nobody but Rosemary Wanjiku dared to go near it. The bird pecked her on the chest.

/RITA DAMARY

Wanjiku locked the bird inside her compound overnight and later cooked ugali equal to a kilogramme packet of flour for it. A kilo of unga cost at least Sh75 before the government's subsidised options that lowered the price to about Sh47.

"The bird did not take the meal," she said and demanded that Kenya Wildlife Service give her the amount of money she spent on the flour.

The woman said she has not been able to go work since people have been flocking her home to catch a glimpse of the bird.

Resident Rachel Wambui said they fear the bird might cause poultry-related diseases.

/RITA DAMARY

Wanjiku may not get money from KWS but she is one of many Kenyans who have suffered since February when the prices of maize flour and other basic commodities increased drastically.

Kenya is facing a shortage which the National Assembly Agriculture committee is looking into. Cabinet Secretary Willy Bett and PS Richard Lesiyampe faced the team today and the grilling will continue next Thursday.

More on this: 5 basic foodstuff that have Uhuru, Jubilee worried ahead of August poll

Also read: You have to trust us': CS Bett explains maize shortage to Agriculture committee

After being named the Opposition candidate, NASA flag bearer Raila Odinga has rapidly gained ground in the Rift Valley.

A Radio Africa poll shows his ratings have been going up, steadily eating into President Uhuru Kenyatta's grip in the vote-rich region.

The latest statistics demonstrate effects of the onslaught Bomet Governor Isaac Rutto has launched in the region since he joined the National Super Alliance as a member of Pentagon.

Other members of the coalition are Kalonzo Musyoka of Wiper, Musalia Mudavadi (Amani National Congress), and Moses Wetang'ula of Ford Kenya. Raila is ODM leader.

If elections were held today, Raila would get 28 per cent and President Uhuru Kenyatta 71 per cent in Bomet.

Read: Isaac Rutto joins NASA as fifth principal, promises Jubilee hard time in polls

NASA principals have made several promises, key among them ending corruption and lowering the cost of living.

"No Kenyan will support a regime, which has completely made life unbearable," Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang said when responding to the poll.

In Trans Nzoia, Uhuru gor a 41 per cent rating and followed by Raila at 30 per cent. Twenty nine per cent were undecided.

The Opposition chief has a 33 per cent following in Narok while Uhuru has 61 per cent with six per cent being undecided.

Raila and Uhuru were at 23 and 61 per cent backing respectively in Nakuru. Some six per cent were yet to settle on who to support.

But the orange party leader is still doing badly in Nandi at seven per cent. Uhuru enjoys 90 per cent support there.

In Kajiado, Raila got 21 per cent backing and Uhuru 74 per cent.

The data was collected through the Computer Aided Telephone Interview and involved 764 respondents drawn from counties in Rift Valley. The region has more than four million registered voters.

In Kericho county, Uhuru and Raila have 75 and 16 per cent support respectively whereas 64 per cent said they will back Uhuru in Uasin Gishu.

The NASA leader was rated at 23 per cent in the county which is Deputy President William Ruto's backyard.

In November last year, Raila was crowned a Kalenjin elder in Ruto's backyard which is also a Jubilee stronghold.

He was given blessings to run for president when he visited Meibeki Karona trading centre in Uasin Gichu.

NASA held its first rally in Eldoret in February when it announced its seven key pillars. These included national reconciliation and healing, resolving historical injustices and realising equality for women, youth and other disadvantaged groups. The others were strengthening devolution, transforming government, eradicating poverty and unemployment and realising social and economic rights.

More on this: Raila crowned Kalenjin elder in Ruto's backyard

Elections presided over by the Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission will be held in 80 days.

The poll also revealed that 53 per cent Kenyans will vote Jubilee party, 42 per cent for the opposition while 7 per cent are undecided.

However, 57 per cent said they can vote for independent candidates while 39 per cent said no.

This was a clear indication independent candidates remains a strong swing vote in the next parliament.

Raila has sharply cut the gap with Uhuru picking extra votes from the undecided group.

His influence in the battle zones has also been growing rapidly.

In the March 4, 2013 polls, Uhuru garnered 210,501 votes in Bomet; Trans Nzoia (92,035), Narok (109,413), Nakuru (494,239), Kajiado (138,551), Nandi (192,587), Kericho (238,556), and 211,438 in Uasin Gishu.

Raila got 10,463 in Bomet; Trans Nzoia (74,466), Narok (118,623), Nakuru (105,600), Kajiado (117,856), Nandi (20,549), Kericho (17,326), and 60,060 in Uasin Gishu.

Also read: Raila closing in on Uhuru - poll

Jubilee's robust campaign strategy targets 11 million votes to deliver an unassailable first-round victory against a resurgent NASA on August 8.

It aims for 65 per cent of the vote, not the razor-thin margin of the disputed 2013 polls.

Strategists have advised President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto to reshuffle regional point men countrywide.

They aim to get rid of old-timers and the officials who messed up Jubilee primaries in a humiliating exercise that was supposed to run like clockwork.

Replacing them will be wealthy businessmen, popular professionals and retired powerful political figures. They will include billionaire businessman Peter Muthoka, retired military chief General Jeremiah Kianga, among others.

Changing the regional pillars is a move to galvanise and bolster Jubilee's foot soldiers, many of whom were angry and disappointed by the nominations.

Jubilee mandarins have identified 13 swing-vote counties, decisive in delivering a knockout victory as the battle for Kenya's 19 million voters hots up.

NASA is targeting 10 million voters for the"10 Million Strong" campaign.

The 13 targetted counties have slightly above 4.75 million registered voters. They are Garissa, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kilifi, Kisii, Kwale, Lamu, Mombasa, Narok, Nyamira, Taita Taveta and Wajir.

Read: Uhuru will win in Round One with 70-plus per cent

In strategy Jubilee documents seen exclusively by the Star, the ruling party says it believes the election will a round one stunner.

It says the President will formally launch his reelection bid at the end of this month, then campaign countrywide.

Uhuru will commission mega projects, including the series of roads whose construction he already launched.

The idea is to reinforce the image of Uhuru as a development-conscious leader by showcasing some projects he launched.

"It is of critical significance that completion of most of the projects launched by His Excellency the President be accelerated for commissioning," one document says.

"To be given urgent attention are projects that impact the livelihoods of Kenyans directly. Relevant implementing agencies must ensure the projects are on course," one of the documents says.

Deputy Chief of Staff and head of Pubic Service Nzioka Waita has been tasked to monitor the progress of the projects countrywide and give a weekly update to State House strategists and the Jubilee Secretariat at Pangani.

Pangani will be the nerve centre the President's reelection campaign.

Waita is in charge of the President’s Delivery Unit, Office of Budget Management, Performance Contracting and Oversight Office and the State Corporations Oversight Office.

"The President's diary will be managed by State House as it has been, but the campaign secretariat will coordinate campaign activities from Pangani," a document says.

The President is keen on completion of most road projects he launched so he can commission them as he campaigns from June.

Jubilee leaders, including incumbent MPs where projects were launched, are said to be concerned that Jubilee's fortunes may dwindle if mega projects are not completed and commissioned before August.

In an aggressive strategy to eat into opposition strongholds and ring-fence their backyards, Uhuru and Ruto have recently held closed meetings with large delegations from perceived opposition strongholds.

Read More: Jubilee maps stongholds, battle zones

Political analysts say they are trying to bring on board regional leaders, key business figures and professionals who can help them penetrate NASA strongholds.

Jubilee has identified prominent figures from Wiper-controlled Ukambani — Kitui, Machakos and Makueni — to energise campaigns by elected MPs.

Those spearheading the Jubilee campaign include billionaire businessman Peter Muthoka and retired military chief General Jeremiah Kianga.

A week ago, Muthoka, Kianga and other professionals were at State House where they donated 12 Jubilee Party branded cars, equipment, materials and a fleet of trucks to be used by candidates in Ukambani.

Muthoka briefed Uhuru and Ruto on the Jubilee strategy in the Lower Eastern region.

He said he was certain of a win in Ukambani.

“We are confident Jubilee Party this time will get most votes in Ukambani because in 2013 you were giving Kenyans a promise. But this time, you are talking to Kenyans with a scorecard of your achievements for roads that they have travelled on, electricity that they can see, a standard gauge railway put up in record time and ground-shaking education reforms,” Muthoka told Uhuru.

He added, “On the other hand, we have an opposition without a promise other than empty dreams, propaganda and criticism of your government.”

MCA Thomas Minito, who had been missing for five days, was found dead in Ol Donyo Sabuk, Machakos on Friday morning.

The Churo-Amaya ward representative had been termed a bandit leader and linked to attacks in the volatile Kerio Valley. He went missing on Monday.

The bodies of human rights lawyer Willie Kimani, his client Josephat Mwenda and taxi driver Joseph Murirui were found in the area last year. Investigations into these killings are yet to be completed.

Read: Baringo MCA linked to Laikipia bandit attacks goes missing

Also see: Willie Kimani murder: Diver narrates horror of finding bodies floating in River Athi

Officers at Ol Donyo Sabuk police station said a boda boda rider called with the report that he had found a body in River Athi, just under the bridge.

The officers visited the scene alongside others from the Kangundo DCI. They said the body had visible head, neck and hand injuries, indications that the victim may have been strangled to death.

Machakos police chief Samuel Mukindia said police believed the body they collected was Minito's as they found a voter's card with his name. Family members are yet to identify the body which was taken to Machakos district mortuary.

The Baringo criminal investigation department is yet to produce a report on the Pokot leader's abduction and murder.

Minito was last seen at about noon on Monday having lunch with a woman before three men in plain clothes approached saying he was under arrest.

"They demanded he accompany them to the police station to record a statement after identifying themselves as officers," the woman said when she reported the incident at the Kabarnet station about 20 minutes later.

Minito's phone was traced to between Sesya and Koriema along Kabarnet-Marigat road.

On Thursday, aggrieved Pokot residents led by Speaker William Kamket, stormed the police station demanding that the government produce their leader and give them an explanation.

Kamket was with Kolowa MCA Solomon Makal and the county's environment executive Moses Atuk.

"It is the work of the government to protect its citizens. We are wondering why police are silent about this serious matter," he said, adding they were representing the people. "We need a clear report from the security officers immediately.

Last month, Minito was arrested, arraigned and released on Sh1.5 million bond for allegedly planning violence in Laikipia and Baringo during which several people were killed or injured. Livestock were either stolen or killed.

More on this: Pokot bandits burn Laikipia's Mukutan Retreat in revenge on police

Also read: Baringo MCA Minito arrested in Kabarnet over links to Laikipia bandit attacks

But Kamket was on Thursday booked to record a statement at Kabarnet police station over the bandit attacks. He reported to the office of CID officer Festus Malinka.

The Speaker has been accused of brokering illegal guns and ammunition for suspected Pokot bandits to attack the neighbouring Tugen, Ilchamus, Marakwet and Turkana communities.

He denied the claims and was also questioned on Minito's disappearance.

"I was only questioned based on allegations that I procure firearms to my Pokot residents to fight other communities, something I strongly deny," he said, adding he is a lover of peace.

Kamket will vie for the Tiaty MP seat against incumbent Asman Kamama (People's Development Reforms), who has also denied inciting violence.

The Speaker blames Kamama for his endless troubles; he says the MP does not want him to vie in the August 8 election.

Loyamorok MCA Kibet Cheretei and Tiaty MP aspirant Pepe Kitambaa were shot dead by unknown gunmen at a nightclub in Marigat town, Baringo South in February.

Kamama denied links to the killings but Opposition leader Raila Odinga said the two were murdered for political reasons as they would have been the strongest candidates in the poll.

Read more: Cheretei, Kitambaa were assassinated for political reasons, says Raila

Also see: I did not kill Pepe and Cheretei, Tiaty MP Kamama says

Three children of Eldoret MCA aspirant James Ratemo have been found murdered and their bodies dumped in River Nzoia.

Clifford (seven), Glen (three) and Taya (five) were reported missing last Saturday. They did not return home after leaving for Eldovil SDA Church.

Taya was a class one pupil of Shalom Academy while Clifton attended Highlands Academy.

Their father is vying for the Kapsoya ward representative seat on a Kanu ticket.

Eldoret MCA aspirant James Ratemo's family members at their home. /MATHEWS NDANYI

The family had put up posters of the children amid a search for them. The bodies were found on Thursday night.

Their uncle Enock Onsanze was arrested on Friday as he was the one last seen with them.

Relative Peter Lukhoye said the bodies were taken to a facility in Eldoret for post morterms.

Senator Johnson Muthama has declared he is no longer married to Jubilee Machakos woman representative nominee Agnes Kavindu.

Muthama told journalists on Friday that he only accommodated Kavindu at his home when he realised she was suffering after their divorced in 1983.

"I had children with her and being human, I gave her a place to stay when I saw how much she was suffering," he said.

"She is lying that we are married now that she has made money. I hope she does not want to ride on my name."

The legislator said he has all legal documents showing he divorced Kavindu and got back what he paid as dowry.

"She cannot even be buried in my home since her parents refunded the dowry," Muthama said.

Kavindu was one of 35 aspirants in the county who received Jubilee tickets from Susan Maina, Jubilee's regional coordinator for Nairobi area.

She thanked President Uhuru Kenyatta's party for paving the way for her to vie.

She will face Joyce Kamene (Wiper), Francisca Mutinda (Maendeleo Chap Chap), Jane Ndeti (CCU) and independent candidate Rita Ndunge.

"The President has always supported women... I promise to deliver," she said on Monday.

Read: Muthama's ex-wife Agnes Kavindu gets Jubilee ticket for Machakos woman rep

Investigations into Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho's academic qualifications were carried out after a complaint from a Kenyan, the DPP has said.

He said the police received a complaint letter dated January 3 from Janet Mbete who questioned the authenticity of Joho's KCSE exam certificate.

Assistant DPP Alexander Muteti said the investigations have never been malicious as the police had acquired documents from the academic institutions and established that the complaints were genuine.

The probe revealed that Joho had forged the KCSE results slip, which he produced while applying for admission at the University of Nairobi, he said.

“The documents acquired from Nairobi University clearly indicate Joho, under his own hand, applied [for the degree course], paid fees and did examinations,” Muteti said.

He said that Joho, through Portside Terminal, a clearing and forwarding company associated with his family, had paid Sh210,000 to Nairobi University.

Muteti said that with the facts gathered, it is genuine to prosecute the governor for numerous criminal offences, including forgery, uttering false documents and giving false information to public officials.

The DPP further told the court that the investigations were conducted fairly without any harassment.

“We have given him even a chance to choose when to appear before the police since he alleges to be a busy man,” he said.

Muteti further noted that protection being sought by the governor against investigations and prosecution will result to cushioning a suspect from prosecution.

He added that the investigations were never politically instigated. The governor had claimed it was political witch-hunt.

On April 30, judge Erick Ogolla barred the prosecution and police from arresting, prosecuting or charging Joho until determination of his petition.

This is after he sued the Attorney General, DPP and IG for harassment.

The hearing continues on May 30.

If Kenyans voted today, there would be new governors in Nairobi, Kirinyaga, Busia — and quite a few incumbents would be sent packing.

But Governors Hassan Joho in Mombasa, Alfred Mutua in Machakos and Paul Chepkwony in Kericho would comfortably retain their seats.

The August 8 General Election is 80 days away.

A new poll by the Radio Africa Group Research Department shows a good number of sitting governors will struggle to retain their seats.

Some newcomers appear to have a competitive edge.

The survey of 3,430 registered voters was conducted from May 3-14 in 28 counties sampled through random, multi-stage stratified methods using PPS (proportionate to population size).

In Nairobi, the survey indicates Jubilee nominee Senator Mike Sonko would defeat ODM's Governor Evans Kidero by 49 per cent to 35 per cent.

Read: Jubilee will win Nairobi posts and solve city problems

Former presidential candidate Peter Kenneth would get nine per cent.

Six per cent of capital respondents said they were undecided. One per cent said they would vote for Miguna Miguna, ODM chief Raila Odinga's former adviser,

In Kirinyaga county, former Devolution CS Anne Waiguru appears to have an unassailable lead at 80 per cent. Former Justice minister Martha Karua comes a distant second with 13 per cent. Governor Joseph Ndathi managesone per cent. Five per cent undecided.

Read: I will beat Ndathi, Karua in August polls - Waiguru

Meru Governor Peter Munya's reelection appears uncertain, with 40 per cent support, compared with 45 per cent backing Senator Kiraitu Murungi. Former MPs Gitobu Imanyara and Kilemi Mwiria scored six per cent and two per cent, respectively. Eight per cent were uncertain.

In Kiambu, the poll indicates Governor William Kabogo would lose to Kabete MP Ferdinand Waititu, 10 per cent to 74 per cent. Sixteen per cent undecided.

Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong also could be on his way out, garnering only 23 per cent, to 61 per cent preferringFunyula MP Paul Otuoma. Sixteen per cent undecided.

Read: Ojaamong didn't honour clan deal – Otuoma

The survey indicates former Interior CS Joseph ole Lenku is set to cause an upset in Kajiado, winning 67 percent compared with Governor David Nkedianye's 13 percent. Daniel Nina would get six per cent and George Kingori five. Undecideds five per cent.

Bomet Governor Isaac Rutto, a NASA principal, appears to be in trouble and could lose to Sotik MP and Jubilee Party nominee Joyce Laboso. The poll indicates Laboso would get 56 per cent, Rutto 44 per cent.

The same anti-incumbent scenario seems to be playing out in Nakuru where former NTSA boss Lee Kinyanjui leads with 51 per cent to Governor Kinuthia Mbugua's 33 per cent. CCM's Peter Koros would get four per cent. Undecideds 11 per cent.

Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti also appears to be on his way out, scoring 35 per cent against Oyugi Magwanga's 64 per cent.

In Mombasa, Governor Hassan Joho appears to have no competition and 80 per cent support. JP's Suleiman Shahbal would get eight per cent, Senator Hassan Omar would win four per cent. Undecideds six per cent.

The race in Garissa appears too close to call. Governor Nathif Jama would get 22 per cent and his main competitors — Ali Korane and Bashir Haji scoring 14 per cent each. Undecideds 14 per cent.

In Machakos, Governor Alfred Mutua scored 54 per cent and Wiper's Wavinya Ndeti 40 per cent. Undecideds five per cent.

In Nyeri, former director of Vision 2030 Secretariat Wahome Gakuru enjoys a massive lead of 82 per cent to Governor Samuel Wamathai's seven per cent. Undecideds eight per cent.

In Muranga, Governor Mwangi Wa Iria takes 92 per cent to rival Jamleck Kamau's five per cent. Undecided three per cent.

Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago has a comfortable lead of 55 per cent, with businessman Zedekiah Buzeki at 22 per cent. Undecided 11 per cent.

In Kakamega, Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has a strong lead at 78 per cent, with Senator Boni Khalwale at five per cent. Undecided 12 per cent.

Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka has 47 per cent support and nominated MP Wycliffe Wangamati 33 per cent. Undecided 20 per cent.

Kisumu Governor Jack Ranguma leads with 50 per cent, Senator Anyang' Nyong'o takes 28 per cent. Undecided 19 per cent.

In Kisii, Governor James Ongwae is way ahead with 84 per cent, trailed by South Mugirango MP Manson Nyamweya at seven per cent and Senator Chris Obure scoring three per cent.

Kericho Governor Paul Chepkwony scores 91 per cent, unopposed. Undecided eight per cent.

Nandi Senator Stephen Sang scores 88 per cent in the governor's race against former Minister Henry Kosgey, who has since backed down, scoring five per cent.

In Nyandarua, Governor Waithaka Mwangi leads with 48 per cent, followed by former head of Civil Service Francis Kimemia at 35 per cent. Undecided 18 per cent.

Kitui Governor Julius Malombe leads with 48 per cent, followed by Senator David Musila at 30 per cent and former Lands CS Charity Ngilu at 23 per cent.

Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga appears safe with a 50 per cent lead, followed by Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo with 34 per cent and Senator James Orengo with 10 per cent.

In Makueni, Governor Kivutha Kibwana scores 81 per cent and businessman David Masika five per cent. Undecided nine per cent.

Narok Governor Samuel Tunai leads with 64 per cent followed by Narok West MP Patrick Ntutu at 22 per cent and former ICT PS Joseph Tiampati at three per cent. Undecided eight per cent.

Kilifi and Trans Nzoia have the highest number of undecided voters, which equal the score of the leading candidates.

Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi has 47 per cent, Kilifi North MP Gideon Mungaro takes 12 per cent. Undecided are 42 per cent.

In Trans Nzoia, Governor Patrick Khaemba has 36 per cent and Maurice Bisau 29 per cent. Undecided 35 per cent.

Read: How governors will influence the August 8 outcomes

NASA's presidential running-mate, Kalonzo Musyoka is listed as the nominee for the Presidency by the Wiper Democratic Party, the IEBC has revealed.

According to a report by IEBC released on Saturday, NASA's presidential nominee Raila Odinga has been submitted as the ODM candidate but with no running-mate.

The report shows that out of 19 presidential hopefuls, only President Uhuru Kenyatta has submitted William Ruto as his running-mate under the Jubilee Party.

Raila was unveiled as the NASA presidential candidate on April 27 at Uhuru Park where Kalonzo was named the running mate.

Some Wiper members led by Minority Leader in the National Assembly Francis Nyenze protested the move saying Wiper had been short-changed.

They later made an about-turn after being prevailed upon by Kalonzo.

The IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati said that political parties can amend the the list which is computer generated by Sunday, May 21.

"Except for independent candidates, the list was generated by the Candidate Registration Management System (CRMS) which allowed political parties to submit their candidates on-line. The last date of submission was on May 16, 2017. Political Parties and independent candidates are encouraged to review the list and provide any clarification and correction where required," IEBC said in the report.

The IEBC has allowed political parties to access the database and make the necessary changes, though in a limited manner, until Sunday.

"Most presidential and gubernatorial candidates are yet to submit names of their respective running mates," IEBC said.

Parties can only edit the records or add photos of the candidates but cannot add new records or delete/replace existing records.

Presidential candidates include Dida Mohamed Abduba is Alliance for Real Change, Juma Justus Onyango for Justice and Freedom Party and Musungu Amram for Maendeleo Democratic Party.

Others include Ekuru Aukot for Thirdway Alliance Kenya and Jirongo Shakhalaga for United Democratic Partry.

Independent candidates are Peter Gichira, Michael Waweru, Joseph Nyagah, Michael Orenge, Eliud Kariara, Japhet Kaluyu and Stephen Oganga.

Others are Peter Osotsi, Nazlin Omar, David Munga and Erastus Nyamera.

Read: List of 18 Kenyans in race to State House

The IEBC said that it has received a total of 15,082 candidates who are seeking to be on the ballot papers for the August general election.

According to an updated interim report on candidates released by the commission on Saturday, 19 candidates will be battling for presidency, 246 for governor and 349 for senator.

In the report, 327 candidates will battle for Woman MP, 2,078 candidates for Member of Parliament while 12,060 for Member of County Assembly.

Out of this, political parties have submitted 8 presidential candidates, 183 governors, 263 senators, 258 Woman Reps, 1,473 MPs and 9,142 MCAs a total of 11,330 candidates.

For Independent candidates, 11 candidates have submitted their names for presidential seat, 63 governors, 86 senators, 69 Woman Reps, 605 Mps and 2,918 MCAs a total of 3,752 candidates.

Jubilee Party has the largest number of candidates at 1,801 followed by ODM with 1,289 candidates and Maendeleo chap chap is third with 911 candidates.

Kanu follows with 695 candidates, Mudavadi’s ANC has 639 while Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper follows with 632 candidates.

Forum for Restoration of Democracy – Kenya has 631 candidates, CCM has 372, PNU has 344 candidates and DP has 264 candidates.

In terms of county representation, Nairobi leads with the highest number of candidates at 439, followed by Kiambu with 223 and Nakuru is third with 193 candidates.

Meru, Bungoma and Kamega counties have 169, 165 and 145 candidates respectively while Nyeri has 145 followed by Kisii with 143, Murang’a with 127 and Trans Nzoia with 114 candidates.

Chebukati said following a dispute over Chama cha Uzalendo list, the commission has excluded the same from the interim report till further notice.

More on this: We're contented with choice of Kalonzo as Raila's running mate, says Ukambani leaders

Also read: [VIDEO] Nasa line up raw deal for Kambas, we will not play second fiddle - Nyenze

NASA presidential flag bearer Raila Odinga has asked his supporters to only vote for NASA-affiliated parties in the coming August 8th polls.

Raila said the move will boost his presidency after the August polls when he collects 25 percent of elected leaders in the 47 counties.

Raila was speaking in Rarieda during the funeral service of the late Mama Gladys Amollo mother to Rarieda ODM parliamentary candidate Otiende Amollo and nominated senator Elizabeth Ongoro.

The NASA flag bearer reminded voters that it only elected leaders under the umbrella of NASA who will implement the coalition’s manifesto and blue print.

“The NASA coalition has five parties, ODM, Ford Kenya, ANC, Chama cha Mashinani and Wiper whose candidates should be considered in the coming general election to boost my bid,” said Raila.

Read: Independent candidates' new record high of 4,000

Raila criticized those who lost in the just concluded party primaries for being on the ballot box in the August polls as independent candidates yet the public rejected them.

He further mentioned that the independent candidate doesn't relate well with their ideals and philosophy despite insisting that they his candidature.

“I have constantly urged them to adhere to the wishes of the people but they have insisted on running as independent, let them not deceive you using my name to satisfy their selfish interest,” Raila added.

Nasa co-principal Musalia Mudavadi echoed Raila’s sentiments mentioning those who lost in the party primaries should shelve their ambitions and support those who won.

Mudavadi added that as NASA co-principals they were forced to shelve their ambitions after the select committee landed on Raila as their presidential flag bearer.

“We accepted the verdict of the select committee as much as we were all interested in being the NASA presidential flag bearer and that is why we are fully behind Raila’s presidential bid,” said Mudavadi.

The ANC party leader insisted that their main aim is to remove Jubilee government from power and by independent candidate bringing confusion at Raila’s doorstep will destruct his focus.

He asked the independent candidates in Raila’s home-turf to consider giving him easy time in the coming general elections campaign.

Siaya senator James Orengo who was also in attendance added that voters should not forsake the MCAs who are under the umbrella of NASA as those too will boost the coalition’s strength.

Orengo added that Raila needs a formidable team from the MCA to the top in his camp to knock out Jubilee in the first round.

Currently, in Siaya five candidates are vying for parliamentary seats as independent candidates after claiming that they were rigged out during nominations.

Nicholas Gumbo who also lost to incumbent Siaya governor Cornel Rasanga in the ODM party primaries has been cleared to vie for the governorship in Siaya as an independent candidate.

Read: Jubilee Mt Kenya nominees draw up plan to tame independents

More: Uhuru skips independents meet in Kasarani as Jubilee ticket losers endorse his reelection

NASA flagbearer Raila Odinga and his running mate Kalonzo Musyoka will present their nomination papers to the IEBC next Sunday.

Raila dismissed claims that Kalonzo had submitted nomination papers as the nominee for presidency for Wiper.

He termed the claims as propaganda, saying the electoral agency has not been receiving nomination papers of candidates.

“As you know that the IEBC has announced the date when the candidates are going to submit their nomination papers. Kalonzo and I have decided to submit our documents on May 28,” Raila said.

“Any speculation is unfounded. You cannot present any document to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission before the formal announcement of the receipts”.

He added that the IEBC has already gazetted official dates of submission of nomination documents for the various elective positions.

Raila spoke on Sunday at St Stephen’s ACK Cathedral, Kisumu.

According to the electoral agency report released on Saturday, Kalonzo was listed as the Wiper nominee for President.

In the report, Raila has been submitted as the ODM candidate, but with no running mate.

It further indicates that out of 19 presidential hopefuls, only President Uhuru Kenyatta has presented William Ruto as his running mate under the Jubilee Party.

Raila was named NASA candidate on April 27 at Uhuru Park, Nairobi, and Kalonzo his running mate.

The former Prime Minister said they will campaign for NASA candidates in every constituency to ensure they have majority of governor, MP, MCA and senator seats.

“We don’t just want to win the presidency, we want to also have majority in both Houses of Parliament so that we are able to effectively prosecute our agenda in the government,” Raila said.

He said NASA has fielded several candidates for various political seats, and ODM party has more than 200 candidates countrywide.

Raila downplayed his remarks that NASA supporters should not vote for independent candidates as this was likely to cause voter apathy in their strongholds.

“Election is a competition and the independent candidates too have rights to participate in the electoral process in a democratic manner,” he added.

Further, Raila defended the NASA stand on getting the 10 million plus votes, saying they have enough statistical evidence to back the numbers.

“We have looked at our strongholds and the swing votes and, in fact, we have 12 million votes, which we are sure of,” he said.

The NASA principal dismissed claims by the Jubilee Party that they will get 14 million votes, terming it a mere reaction to the strong wave of NASA support.

He expressed confidence that the opposition will form the government as Kenyans are yearning for transformative administration.

“Kenyans must come out to send the present government home. For us to realise this we must take personal initiative to verify if we are registered as voters and cast the vote in the August polls,” Raila said.

He said Kenyans will never suffer under NASA leadership, as they are suffering now due to high cost of living.

KEY aides to President Uhuru Kenyatta abandoned Peter Kenneth at the last minute for Mike Sonko, after the Nairobi Senator threatened to unleash a sensitive dossier about them.

It is understood that Sonko has video and audio recordings of some “embarrassing activities” involving key people around the President.

“The tapes are damaging and, should Sonko release them, the Jubilee campaign would be shattered,” said a Jubilee Party official aware of the recordings.

The former Gatanga MP has resigned from Jubilee Party and will vie for Nairobi Governor at the August 8 General Election as an independent candidate.

Kenneth will battle it out with Sonko, incumbent Evans Kidero and Miguna Miguna.

Read: It is a struggle for political relevance for Peter Kenneth

Also Read:Peter Kenneth quits Jubilee, to run for Nairobi governor as an independent

Sonko has named Polycarp Igathe as his running mate, Kidero has retained Jonathan Mweke and Kenneth is expected to name former footballer Dan Shikanda as his number two.

Apparently President Kenyatta did not want Jubilee to conduct nominations in Nairobi and he preferred that Kenneth be candidate and Sonko his running mate.

The President’s position was supported by Jubilee Vice Chairman David Murathe and a team of powerful elders from Murang’a led by Maina Wanjigi, father of Jimmy Wanjigi.

But a week to the nominations things changed. Deputy President William Ruto, working with a number of State House officials, suddenly ditched Kenneth for Sonko after the latter had totally refused to step aside.

“Ruto saw the opportunity to fix Kenneth because of his 2022 ambitions. State House officials on the other hand were scared that their dealings with Sonko would be exposed," a source known to be close to Sonko told the Star.

Yesterday Sonko denied having any tapes.

He said if anyone in State House supported him, then it’s the Nairobi voters who work there that voted for him at the nearby St George's School polling station.

“That I have tapes is cheap propaganda. I have never recorded anyone and neither have I blackmailed anyone to support me. The President should not be dragged into this matter.

“The DP and other people have decided to support me because I won the Jubilee nomination in a fair contest,” said Sonko.

The Jubilee nominee accused Kenneth of enjoying government support.

“He was being supported by people from the ministry of Interior and others. I worked had for my win and I'm sure the great people of Nairobi will vote for me in August,” said Sonko.

Long before the nomination date, State House operatives had told Kenneth that the ticket was his because Sonko had accepted to step aside.

But when word reached Nairobi MPs who supported Kenneth, and who were led by Starehe’s Maina Kamanda, the leaders opposed the deal.

“They told those brokering the deal that it would have been unwise to hand Sonko all that cash before elections because the man could not be trusted and he could use the money to fight all those leaders he did not want,” said a Jubilee MP.

Kenyatta's close friend and Murathe is said to be backing Kenneth's bid and has vowed to ensure that Sonko does not win.

Sonko's decision to name Igathe his running mate has also not gone down well with some rich, powerful and influential people in Murang’a.

Murang’a businesspeople control a lot of business in Nairobi and have always played a key role in deciding the city's leadership.

After Kenneth lost to Sonko, and he named Igathe, who is from Gatundu, Kiambu, the Murang’a group led by Wanjigi Sr asked Kenneth to run as an independent.

“The elders don't trust Sonko and they also do not think much of Peter Munga of Equity, who is positioning himself as Ruto's power broker in the region. To defeat the Ruto-Sonko axis, the Murang’a group has decided to support Kenneth plus a host of non-Jubilee candidates running for Parliament and County Assembly seats.

Ruto has been meeting aspirants from Nairobi and other Mount Kenya areas in his bid to ensure that Jubilee aspirants present a united front.

In his letter to Jubilee dated April 26, Kenneth detailed how he was rigged out of the ruling party.

He claimed that Kajiado and Machakos voters were imported to take part in the April 30 Jubilee primaries and many of them were transported to strategic polling stations in the county, with instructions to vote for particular candidates. He also noted that there was a scheme to transport organised groups to vote in various other polling stations.

In the protest letter to the Jubilee Party, which the Star obtained yesterday, Kenneth said the party's directive that only IDs were required in the poll made it easy for the scheme to sail through.

Sonko was declared winner having garnered 138,185 votes, while Kenneth came a distant second with 62,504 votes. Bishop Margaret Wanjiru got 7,654 votes.

Kenneth said non-JP members voted in the polls, some of them multiple times.

“Even after the party issued a statement that the vote should be conducted through the Voter's Register, voting by IDs was used in many constituencies,” he said.

The aspirant further complained that duly registered voters were denied the chance to vote when the use of registers was introduced halfway through the voting.

“Their names were missing in the registers. The presiding officers also used marker pens instead of indelible ink hence facilitating multiple voting,” Kenneth said in the letter addressed to JP Secretary General Raphael Tuju.

He further claimed that there were cases where voters were bribed outside the polling stations, adding that this action dramatically altered the true voting outcome.

“A number of polling stations opened late while others closed early. Some were only opened for one hour. This perpetrated electoral fraud,” Kenneth said.

The governor hopeful was emphatic these irregularities that forced him out of Jubilee.

“There were cases of ballot stuffing. In short, the elections were stolen,” Kenneth said when he announced his resignation on Friday.

He added that the 93 appeals out of a possible 105 seats contested during the nominations were an indication of the magnitude of the rigging.

More: You were ill-advised on governor bid against Sonko, Isaac Mwaura tells Peter Kenneth

A relative last seen with Kapsoya MCA aspirant James Ratemo's three children will be charged with killing them.

Clifford Nyamweya aged six, five-year-old Dan Nyamweya and Glen Ongaki aged three were reported missing last Saturday. Their uncle Enock Onsanze has been termed the prime suspect.

A witness said Onsanze was seen with the children in Eldoret town, moments after they were abducted on their way to Eldovil SDA Church. He is said to have bought them chips, their last meal before their bodies were found dumped in River Nzoia.

More on this: [VIDEO] Three children of Eldoret MCA aspirant found murdered

Uasin Gishu deputy police commander Samwel Mutunga said they had made progress in investigations and that the suspect was in custody pending the charges.

“After he (Onsanze) was spotted in Eldoret, he switched off his phone and put it on later in the night. He was arrested and charged with abduction," he said.

Mutunga said they had crucial leads that will see other suspects arrested.

Initial investigations pointed to a family dispute and the deputy commander said they had not established a political motive.

The children's mother, Ebby Esaji, said Onsanze sent her a message threatening her over marrying into a difference tribe.

“In the text message, he told me I had a short time to return their wealth because women are not allowed to have a share of it,” she said.

Mutunga said postmortems will establish how the children were killed.

Initial findings indicated they were tortured, their fingers chopped off, eyes gouged out and their throats slit open before their bodies were dumped in the river, more than 60 kilometres from their home.

“We all condemn this incident because children should never be part of disputes. We will work round the clock to arrest all those involved," said Mutunga.

MPs Oscar Sudi ( and Alfred Keter (Nandi Hills) visitedRatemo's home and urged police to quicken their probe.

“We demand a speedy probe into the incident that has caused panic among all parents in Kenya. People are now living in fear and locking their children up in houses out of fear," Keter said.

See: [VIDEO] MPs Keter, Sudi demand speedy probe into death of Eldoret MCA aspirant's three children

Ratemo said they were yet to set a burial date.

"We thank all those who have stood with us and are working with police so the truth is known," he said.

More than 10 people have recorded statements so far.

NASA has split its campaign into four groups to cover every corner of the country in the 76 days remaining until the General Election.

Although Raila Odinga's presidential campaign will have different departments of the secretariat operating from different locations, it will have one presidential secretariat with a clear chain of command, with the five principals at the top, the Pentagon.

One team will be led by Raila and will include Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetang'ula, Lamu Governor Issa Timamy, Kajiado boss David Nkedianye and Narok governor aspirant Joseph Tiampati.

The second team will be led by ANC leader and Raila's election campaign chairman Musalia Mudavadi. His team will be comprised of ODM deputy party leader and Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho; new Council of Governors chairman Josephat Nanok, who is also Turkana governor; Bomet Governor Isaac Rutto, who is also and Chama Cha Mashinani leader; and Aisha Jumwa, the Kilifi women representative.

Read: NASA Pentagon puts Mudavadi in charge of Raila's presidential campaign

More: New NASA strategy will yield maximum outreach

The third team will be led by Deputy President candidate Kalonzo Musyoka, the Wiper party leader. It will include ODM deputy party leader and Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi, former Deputy Speaker Farah Maalim and Mbita MP Millie Odhiambo.

The fourth team is comprised of Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and Mombasa women representative Mishi Mboko. Raila and Mudavadi will alternately join this team from time to time.

“We want to reach every corner of this country in the next 70 days. It is going to be an intense campaign backed by very creative ideas. We believe Kenyans will buy our message and will give us their votes," Mudavadi said in an interview yesterday.

NASA has already issued a two-week campaign schedule starting Wednesday in Isiolo Town and ending on June 10 in Kibwezi, Makueni county. The rallies will also be held in Baringo, West Pokot and Mumias.

Read: NASA lines up Coast, Eastern tours to campaign for Raila

According to the plan, Pentagon members will also directly handle their own strongholds. The idea is to leverage the support and influence the principals have in their regions.

Raila will take charge of Nairobi, Nyanza, parts of Western and the Coast where he enjoys a lot of support.

Kalonzo will take charge of Eastern and parts of the Coast where he too has substantial influence.

Rutto will take charge of the Rift Valley, the home turf of Deputy President William Ruto.

Wetang’ula, the Bungoma senator, will be responsible for some parts of Western Kenya.

Businessman Jimmy Wanjigi is leading the resource mobilisation team, together with former Attorney General Charles Njonjo.

Apart from ensuring that the campaign is well financed, the two will also ensure there are six choppers available for the campaign teams at any given time.

Apart from an army of volunteers, the opposition outfit has assembled some well-respected professionals to help manage the campaign.

The 10-member committee of experts from various fields has already got down to work and is putting the final touches on the coalition’s manifesto.

Professor Willis Otieno, a lawyer, is leading the technical team, which also has economist David Ndii and civil society activists Abubakar Zein, University of Nairobi lecturer Dr Adams Oloo and ODM executive director Oduor Ong’wen. Norman Magaya is the campaign's executive director.

"Ours will be an issue-based campaign," Kalonzo said yesterday. "We will tell Kenyans clearly what the difference between us and Jubilee is."

The four teams have been told to read from the same script and ensure they deliver a consistent message wherever they go.

When it is one month to the elections, the NASA team plans to hold daily press briefings, which will be done alternately by each of the five principals. Each principal will have one press conference a week.

At the county level, NASA leaders will pick the county coordinators from constituent parties. The coordinators will then pick constituency coordinators and polling station managers.

"We will facilitate all these people to ensure that they are not just loyal to us but they work extra hard to mobilise voters and guard the vote," Mudavadi said.

The NASA technical team is currently working on the coalition's manifesto, which they will launch next month.

In the meantime, those campaigning for Raila have been asked to talk about specific things.

NASA will pledge to grow the economy by, among other things, implementing effective fiscal policies, creating jobs by attracting foreign investors, supporting local manufacturers through reduction of power tariffs, encouraging entrepreneurship by giving opportunities to small businesses through low-interest loans, improving the ease of doing business and taking other steps.

The opposition alliance will also pledge to lower the high unemployment rate through training and by giving loans for business start-ups.

It will promise to improve agricultural production by empowering farmers and providing more and better extension services. It will promise to review the agenda for food security, improve it and ensure affordable pricing for commodities.

Also in NASA'S basket of pledges will be tackling the water shortage, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. It plans to lower the cost of energy by lifting and lowering some taxes.

It wants to expand the data communication infrastructure and expand internet access across the country.

It will review taxes for small small and start-up business, with the intention of making it easy to start and sustain business.

The alliance will promise to promote and support local manufacturers.

After presenting their nomination papers to IEBC on Sunday at KICC, NASA leaders will hold a rally at Jacaranda Ground along Ngong road.

Raila will officially launch his fourth presidential bid in Kakamega on June 3.

Before the Kakamega event, Raila and his team will attend Madaraka Day celebrations in Nyeri.

After Kakamega, the opposition campaign team will split again in search of votes in Kapsabet, Machakos, Garsen, Lamu, Mombasa and Taita Taveta.

Also read: Inside Raila's election campaign team

More: Raila crafts new election strategy

Presidential aspirant Abduba Dida is displeased that "naked women" walk around IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati's office.

Dida, who will vie independently, also took a swipe at Chebukati on Tuesday for not paying enough attention to the activities in his office.

"When I presented my signatures to IEBC last night, there were women who were naked. My daughter asked me 'daddy, how come there are so many naked women'?," he said at Nairobi Safari Club during IEBC's meeting with presidential aspirants.

He asked the chairman to step up and "check what is happening around your office".

Dida further told Chebukati not to undermine the number of independent candidates who are presidential aspirants. He noted Kenyans are tired of the leadership that has compelled politicians to vie without affiliation to any political parties.

"[The fact that there are 4,000 independent candidates] is a good indication we are not happy with the current leadership. If your father has failed you, it is your responsibility to say, "Dad, go and rest," he said.

"There are many aspirants who have gone independent but never undermine a potential leader. God is in charge. If everybody hates you...hate won't decrease anything...if the citizens are wajanja, wajanja (crafty), God will bring a leader who is mjanja raised to power 6."

Read: List of 18 Kenyans in race to State House

Describing NASA's threat to boycott elections as monkey business, Dida asked Chebukati to take great care ahead of the general election on August 8.

The National Super Alliance threatened to boycott the poll if the electoral commission amends laws stopping the declaration of presidential results at the polling station.

The coordinating committee led by James Orengo told the electoral agency to withdraw the petition challenging the High court decision on tallying.

The court ruled on April 7 that presidential results declared at the polling station and constituency during the August 8 polls will be final.

"I wish you well, Mr chairman, with the Kalonzo and Raila monkey business...Mungu akusaidie (May God help you)," he added.

More on this: NASA threatens to skip polls over IEBC appeal on tallying law

In February, Dida said he will unseat Uhuru in the August 8 polls. He intends to vie under Tunza coalition which was formed by two parties - Alliance of Real Change party and Roots Party of Kenya. RPK is led by Dida's running mate Professor George Wajackoyah.

During his launch, the second-time presidential aspirant said his first task will be to award salaries cognisant to the level of education of civil servants.

In 2013, Dida garnered 52,848 votes, representing 0.43 per cent of the popular vote.

More on this: Dida pledges to end corruption if elected President in 2017

Dida taught English Literature and Religion at Lenana School and Daadab Secondary School at the refugee camp. He was appointed chair of the Constituency Development Fund but was fired in 2014 afterMPs and some Kenyans opposed his appointment.

Read: Dida, the candidate who stole the show

Also read: Elect religious president to prosper, says Dida