Linah Jebii Kilimo dismisses claims she remains in Azimio, reaffirms UDA allegiance

Nairobi, Kenya – Former Cabinet Minister Linah Jebii Kilimo has firmly denied speculations that she remains a part of the Azimio coalition, stating she is now a member of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as she set her sights on the Marakwet East parliamentary seat in the upcoming 2027 General Election. At Kapyego Grounds in Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kilimo addressed concerns circulating about her political allegiance, asserting that those spreading misinformation were motivated by fear of her potential political resurgence.

"I want to clarify today that I have severed ties with the Azimio coalition and am now a UDA member," Kilimo declared at the press briefing. Her argument was that the doubters were apprehensive about her due to her successful contributions to Marakwet East during her tenure as an MP from 2003 to 2012. Kilimo emphasized her commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence among communities along the Kerio Valley and noted that her efforts resulted in enhanced security in the region.

This security, she argued, laid the groundwork for improved educational opportunities, which in turn spurred development.

Kilimo did not shy away from discussing her past achievements, highlighting that her employment of Kangogo Bowen, the incumbent Marakwet East MP, after his completion of the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, was one such example. She also claimed that she had provided employment opportunities to several others, including Bowen, during her time in leadership.

Kilimo urged voters to evaluate political leaders based on their development records and capacity to deliver tangible benefits, rather than relying on campaign promises or temporary handouts. She cautioned against electing leaders she termed as incapable, asserting that Marakwet East required leadership focused on real progress.