The scheduled presidential trip to Kisii and Nyamira Counties later in this month could prove vital for Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i who is struggling to stamp his authority.
President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga, North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko said, will tour the region on January 23rd and 24th as part of Handshake unity rallies.
"They are both expected in January 24th and we shall discuss development. It is a trip which was planned during the president's Kisumu tour," he said.
Although Matiang'i is yet to declare his interest, sources say he's keen to contest Nyamira County gubernatorial seat despite his roots in South Mugirango, Kisii.
But the emergence of Simba Arati and Timothy Bosire threatens the minister's space in the Gusii region even as both Governor John Nyagarama and James Ongwae plan to retire from active politics.
Political pundit Gideon Mamboleo contends that the trip would prove difficult for Matiang'i should he fail to have prior planning days to the event.
"Arati seems to be stealing the show. Bosire is also keen to still show he's Raila's main man. The minister is in the handshake wing and he must show his bosses that he's the main man on the ground."
Dr Matiang'i quit DP William Ruto's team and has since been Workin closely with Mr Odinga, a reason why he has to prove his prowess due to Bosire and Arati's presence.
During Jubilee campaigns, Matiang'i played a key role in Uhuru's victory in Nyamira and the neighbouring Kisii County.
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