US leader's half brother will run for governor in western Kenya

US President Barack Obama's Kenyan half brother has launched his own political career by announcing his intention to run for a Kenyan county gubernatorial seat in the upcoming March 4 elections.

US President Barack Obama's Kenyan half brother, Malik Obama (center), rallies supporters on Wednesday in Kogelo, Kenya, now renowned as the Obamas' traditional home. Malik, 54, has launched his own political career by announcing his intention to run for a Kenyan gubernatorial seat in the upcoming March 4 general elections. Tony Karumba / Agence France-Presse

Malik Obama, 54, who has the same father as the president of the United States, told AFP in an interview late on Wednesday that the achievements of his more famous brother have "inspired and challenged" him to get into active politics in his homeland.

"When I look at the success that my brother has had in the US, I feel I would have let down my people if I do not follow in his footsteps and end their suffering through dedicated, honest and focused leadership," Malik Obama said in his ancestral home of Kogelo in western Kenya.

The trained economist said he is the right candidate to deal with the "endless cycle of poverty and unemployment that bedevils my people.

"I can confidently say that of all the people who are vying for the position, I am the best placed candidate. ... By virtue of my second name alone, I have the connections to bring development to Siaya," he said, referring to his home county.

Although he said he is charting his own path, Malik Obama is using his now-famous second name to try to get an edge over his competitors, who include the younger brother of Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a country polarized by dominant political parties such as the Orange Democratic Movement founded by Odinga and the National Alliance party of presidential frontrunner Uhuru Kenyatta, Obama is running as an independent.

He said his links to Washington will help him clinch the seat.