Despite persistent warning from Orange Democratic Movement over close ties with Jubilee Government, Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi is yet against set to Host DP William Ruto on Sunday for a fundraiser organised by Itierio Lutheran Church.
Maangi was recently ousted from his position as ODM Kisii branch Organising Secretary before he was reinstated following intervention by top ODM leadership.
However, Maangi on Thursday, in his officials Facebook account confirmed the planned DP’s trip and urged residents to turn up in large numbers to welcome the countries second in command at Iterio Grounds.
“I wish to urge all residents of Kisii to turn up in large numbers and welcome Deputy President William Ruto for a fundraiser at Iterio. He is our friend and we must show solidarity when he offers himself to help spur development in our region,” read the post.
Maangi also cautioned residents against politicising the event, adding that the DP’s function will be purely ‘a church event’.
“It’s my humble wish that our people will not politicize the function. The DP is coming for a church function and not to politics. It’s important to stay sober and desist from persistently politicising events which are organised by churches,” he added.
Maangi also challenged area leaders to show up and discuss matters development with Ruto, arguing that working with Jubilee to spur development in the region is not a crime.
“This is the opportune moment for our leaders to shun myopic politics and work with government to spur growth. The fact that we are in opposition doesn’t mean that we should not work with government and it’s my hope that our leaders will turn up,” he said.
Maangi has been warned for a number of times against helping Jubilee to make inroads in the larger Gusii region despite being a member of Cord coalition.