Recent parastatal appointments done by President Uhuru Kenyatta saw Uasin Gishu county-based tycoon Bundotich Kiprop alias Buzeki landing a government job.
Buzeki unsuccessfully vied for the Uasin Gishu gubernatorial seat in 2017 but was defeated by Jackson Mandago who is now serving for his second term.
In the much heated political contest, the Jubilee party led by President Uhuru and his deputy William Ruto had urged Buzeki to drop his independent candidacy to support the Jubilee candidate, Mandago.
Buzeki declined the offers pledged by the Jubilee party during the campaigns and his recent appointment to serve as the chairperson of Chemelil Sugar Company Limited board was received with mixed reactions both by the locals and politicians.
Here are possible reasons as to why the Jubilee party ‘rewarded’ him the job despite his firm stand in 2017 general elections;
Strong business empire
The tycoon is the founder of Buzeki Group of Companies, which specialises in transport and dairy products. The billionaire rose from a mere milk hawker in Mombasa to his current economic stature. The challenges and scandals currently facing Chemelil Sugar Company will only be overcome by experienced management and Buzeki’s experience might have been the main reason for his appointment.
Political ambitions
Buzeki and DP Ruto hail from the same county yet they were not in good terms in 2017 general elections. Buzeki commands a large number of supporters in the county and to strengthen his 2022 presidential bid, the DP needs a strong political foundation from his home county. Buzeki’s support would guarantee him the maximum support he needs from the county. He will also use this opportunity to strengthen his political scorecard as he prepares for 2022 gubernatorial race in Uasin Gishu county.
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