Deputy President William Ruto on Saturday toured the Western region amid President Uhuru Kenyatta’s succession debate.
The second in command travelled to Shitoto, Kakamega County to attend the burial of Peletina Akhanyinya Washiali, mother to Mumias East MP Benjamin Washiali.
Ruto, who is banking on the support of the region to ascend to power, eulogized the late MP’s mother as a caring woman who made all sorts of sacrifices to ensure her children are successful.
He noted that the death was not only a big blow to the family but the entire nation. He further noted that the deceased was a staunch Christian who was committed to changing the lives of others.
“Mama Peletina Akhanyinya Washiali was a caring, affectionate wife, mother and grandmother. She was a staunch Christian, who taught her children the ways of the Lord. Mama Peletina valued friendship and cordial ties with neighbors, the community and built lasting relationships. She was philanthropic, outgoing and pleasant,” he said.
The tour came a day after Ruto attended the burial of former President Daniel Moi’s longest serving security man, Leonard Yator (Chomber) in Chuiyat Village Tulwet, Uasin Gishu County.
Ruto, who is confident of rising to power in 2022, has objected the idea of the creation of the post of the Prime Minister amid referendum talk.