Uasin Gishu county politics are slowly taking shape ahead of 2022 with potential contestants putting in place strategies of reaching out to the electorates by attending social functions and funds drives.
Kenya’s High Commissioner to Pakistan Julius Bitok is among those eyeing to succeed governor Jackson Mandago and he is already on the campaign trail.
An insider who sought anonymity revealed that Bitok is making an early political move to get familiarized with the locals, attending various functions including sponsoring students with financial challenges and initiating projects under his Foundation.
“He has begun his journey early to meet potential opponents at the onset of 2022 campaign than the last general election,” the insider said adding that logistical strategies are in place to exploit all opportunities available to take his political game to a high notch.
Amb. Bitok unsuccessfully vied for the county's top seat in 2013 but lost to Mandago during the then United Republican Party (URP) primaries. Last year, he opted to rally behind the governor's reelection and also focus on his ambassadorial duties in Pakistan.
John Kirwa, a politician from Uasin Gishu says that Bitok has a high chance to succeed Mandago if the current factors remain constant arguing that those who have shown the interest of vying for the seat are not strong enough.
“Though it’s too early and political currents are not predictable, Bitok stepping up to succeed Mandago is quite clear and will easily be supported by the locals,” Kirwa said.
Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi and his Soy counterpart Caleb Kositany together with billionaire businessman Zedekiah Kiprop Bundotoch alias Buzeki are some of those expected to fight it out with Bitok in the race to succeed Mandago.
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