There has been speculation that the Mt Kenya region will not support Deputy President William Ruto in the 2022 polls.
Pundits argue that the DP might be forced to pick a running mate from the region in a bid to woo voters and avoid the rift in Jubilee Party from further widening.
Here are the Mt Kenya politicians likely to deputise Ruto in 2022.
1. Anne Waiguru
Kirinyaga Governor and former Devolution CS Anne Waiguru has been fronted as one of the politicians likely to be picked as Ruto's running mate ahead of the 2022 polls.
The two clashed over the first National Youth Service (NYS) scandal but later reconciled.
In fact, after former Jubilee Party vice chair David Murathe vowed to block Ruto's 2022 bid, she was the first one to call for fresh polls in the party.
If Ruto picks Waiguru as his running mate, she will bring the element of gender balance in Ruto's team.
2. Catherine Waruguru
The Laikipia women representative has been very vocal in her support for DP Ruto.
She has been constantly reminding the Mt Kenya region of the political debt they owe Ruto, urging them not to be betrayers.
This strong support for the DP puts her in a better position to be Ruto's running mate.
3. Kiraitu Murungi
The Meru governor has been a loyal Jubilee politician.
Over the years, the Mt Kenya region has been dominated by Kikuyu leaders. However, Kiraitu, who is from the Meru community provides a good option to break the monotony.
His Meru support base is also politically attractive in terms of numbers.
4. Kithure Kindiki
The former Senate majority leader and the current Senate deputy speaker has what it takes to be Ruto's running mate.
He also has the advantage of being the Tharaka Nithi senator, a vote-rich county that is famous for voting overwhelmingly for the ruling party.
5. Kimani Ichungwa
The Kikuyu legislator has been very vocal in defending Jubilee on different matters.
One can argue that he represents Jubilee, especially in media debates.
He is also a strong DP Ruto supporter.
6. Peter Kenneth
The former Gatanga legislator has been praised for his development record when he was a member of Parliament.
He unsuccessfully vied for the presidency in 2013, which gives him an edge over other candidates as he has more experience in national politics. He also offers a 'neutral' running mate for Ruto.
7. Mwangi wa Iria
The Murang'a governor's leadership skills place him in a better position to be DP Ruto's running mate.
#hivisasaoriginal