Kilifi senatorial aspirant Fikirini Jacobs has downplayed rumours that he is out of the race.

In a statement on Monday, Fikirini said he is still vying for the Kilifi senatorial position on an ODM ticket.

The firebrand ODM youth leader expressed optimism that he will bag the ticket in the nominations.

“The party conducted nominations for MCAs to give aspirants in the other positions time for consensus. We are still discussing and if we do not agree, we will go for the nominations. As of now no certificate for governor, MP, Senator or woman representative has been issued. The party has been slow on telling the public how we are faring but I want to assure my supporters that I am still in the race,” he said

Speculation has been rife that the party had issued a direct ticket to the incumbent senator Stewart Madzayo.

That party had placed Madzayo as the most preferred candidate for the seat after a scientific poll was conducted.

“I am sure I will carry the day but should things go the opposite I will tell my supporters the next cause of action but I am very much on the race,” he added

Other candidates facing a similar dilemma are Jimmy Kahindi and Getrude Mbeyu