Second term governors in the Rift Valley region have kept voters guessing on their 2022 plans.
As the next general election approaches, three influential governors from the region are yet to announce which political office they will seek once they retire in 2022.
How will these three county bosses remain active in politics when the next government is ushered in?
1. Jackson Mandago
Uasin Gishu county boss Jackson Mandago is one of the strongest local leaders in the North Rift region. The self-proclaimed 'Shujaa wa Maendeleo' is known beyond his county due to his outstanding charisma in politics.
The Jubilee governor was re-elected in the 2017 polls following a gruelling contest with his political nemesis Zedekiah Bundotich alias Buzeki.
2. Patrick Khaemba
Trans Nzoia Governor Patrick Khaemba was little known until he made his debut as a politician in 2013 when he was elected governor on a Ford Kenya ticket. He defeated renowned political bigwig Noah Wekesa among others.
When Deputy President William Ruto met with the county boss after the 2017 polls, many opined that the DP might gift him a senior government position if he is elected president in 2022.
3. Alex Tolgos
The Elgeyo Marakwet governor is among leaders expected to lead DP Ruto's 2022 campaigns in the Rift Valley region. Tolgos, a close ally of the DP has been marshalling support for Ruto to take over the mantle from President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Political analysts opine that the young county boss is likely to be appointed to Cabinet if Ruto clinches the presidency due to his effective stewardship, as he enjoys support from the two Kalenjin sub-tribes.
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