Baringo Senator Gideon Moi's wife Zahra Moi, on Friday retained her board member privileges at the Tourism Research Institute in the latest government appointments.
In a Gazette notice on Friday, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala retained Mrs Moi in the board, even as the lists by various government departments caused outcry from a section of Kenyans.
The notice read: “In exercise of the powers conferred by section 54 (1) (h) of the Tourism Act, 2011, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife re-appoints – Zahra Behlewa Moi to be a member of the Board of Tourism Research Institute, for a period of three years, with effect from the 1st June, 2019.”
The Tourism Secretary also appointed Susan Maina, Kenneth Kiptoo and Ms Wangai Wamae as members of the Kenya Tourism Board. A fortnight ago weeks ago, Mrs Moi was amongst those proposed to take up posts boardroom posts at Nairobi hospital.
Mr Moi, who is serving his third term in parliament, has declared intentions to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta who retires in 2022. His declaration has caused jitters within Rift Valley, wuth allies of DP Ruto accusing him of sabotage.
Last year, he warned the DP that 'despite his pole position advantage, he shouldn't be excited'. The two leaders have often clashed in public, a move that has reportedly worried Rift Valley elders.
“I don't understand why some people think I am a novice in politics. I have come of age and am equal to the task, so I will vie for the presidency. Some people started calling me names and trying to discourage me before I even announced my ambition,” said Mr Moi
Last month, Deputy President William Ruto snubbed retired President Daniel Moi's Kabarak home with local media claiming that he was denied entry. However, Ruto would attend later a funeral to Jonathan Moi, few days later.