A Nyeri candidates public debate was yesterday held on a street to allow more wananchi to take part in it.

The debate, organised by the Youth Agenda and the Nyeri Social Forum, was attended by aspiring senators, governors and parliamentary candidates. The Lumumba Street in Nyeri town was closed off to give wananchi a chance to ask the candidates questions.

"We wanted members of the public to come face to face with the candidates so that they can make informed choices when they cast their votes next Monday. That is why we held it on the street instead of the hotels which would have locked out many residents," said David Ngige, the Nyeri Social Forum coordinator.

Members of the public were given a chance to interrogate all the candidates who attended the event. Most of the question put to the candidates ranged from integrity, revenue generation, corruption and youth matters.

Wananchi demanded to know whether the candidates will honour their pledges when they get elected and whether they will stick to their manifestos.

Others wanted to know the candidates plans on job creation, building of industries, matters affecting women and how they will help the disabled and other special needs groups.

The four-hour debate attracted more than 500 people drawn from youth and women groups and traders in the town. The attendants however complained of the scorching sun.

The candidates who attended the debate include Priscilla Nyokabi and Sheila Githaiga (women representatives), Mutahi Kagwe and Job Kareithi (senator) and Gakuru Wahome (governor).

Nyeri Town parliamentary candidates Paul Kanyari, Kabue Ng'ang'a, George Miatu and Duncan Maina Mathenge were also in attendance.