Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has downplayed claims that he may have lost touch with top Ukambani leadership, arguing that his critics are free to declare interests in various top political seats.
In an interview with Citizen TV, Tuesday, Kalonzo made reference to a recent meeting at Komarock where almost the entire leadership from his backyard attended.
"For me, Komarock-2 meeting was a success. The attendance was almost 98 percent. Almost everyone was present including virtually all MPs, MCAs and County Speakers.
"The meeting is a manifestation on who the communication trusts for leadership. They know who is their leader. These are matters we cannot ignore because they are just facts," he said.
Asked about the rebellion of Governors Alfred Mutua, Prof Kivutha Kibwana and Charity Ngilu, Musyoka was quick to dismiss the brewing alliance, adding that they were only expressing a different opinion.
He insisted that nothing sabotage his cooperation with President Uhuru Kenyatta, saying the community needs direction which he has never failed to give.
"They have a right to express divergent views. That's their democratic right. They can also contest. However, I can assure you I met Ngilu and she's not rebellious at all. We shall work together."
For weeks now, the three governors have openly criticised Mr Musyoka, who has been the Ukambani kingpin in as many years, threatening to mobilise people against his leadership.
Mr Musyoka has lately backed President Uhuru Kenyatta's agenda, a move that didn't go down well with several elected leaders from the South Eastern region.