Embakasi East MP Paul Ongili alias Babu Owino on Saturday apologized for missing in action at Deputy President William Ruto's function scheduled for Sunday.
The DP is set to worship at Mihango ward in Embakasi East. but Owino, in a Facebook post, said would not be part of the function because he was travelling to South Africa.
"I depart for South Africa tonight for a two day working trip in Johannesburg. I am scheduled to return to Nairobi on Tuesday to resume my parliamentary duties.
"I am aware that the Deputy President of the Republic is scheduled to attend Sunday Service in Mihango Ward in Embakasi East. I take this opportunity to offer my apologies - my trip was planned almost a month ago and I regret that I will not be able to attend tomorrow’s function," wrote Mr Owino.
The youthful MP has been critical of DP William Ruto, often accusing him of allegedly spreading hatred among Kenyans. He however, said that residents should turn in large numbers to usher in Ruto.
He also said that in the spirit of handshake, he wholeheartedly welcomes DP William Ruto to the region. Owino is a close confidant of opposition leader Raila Odinga.
"Nonetheless, I warmly welcome Hon William Ruto to Embakasi East in the spirit of building bridges as he worships with our constituents. As Member of Parliament, I urge residents to extend him all the courtesies due to the high office he occupies.
"In closing, I reiterate my continued support for H. E President Uhuru Kenyatta and H. E Raila Odinga’s agenda to unite Kenyans through the Handshake and it is in this same spirit of unity that Hon Ruto should feel at home in Embakasi East," said Owino.