Cracks have emerged in Deputy President William Ruto's Western camp amid his increased forays to the region, it has emerged.
So intense have been the rifts that last week, a section of leaders boycotted a function held at Mumias East which was hosted by Majority Whip Benjamin Washiali.
According to the Standard, the leaders are battling over who should be the pointsman for the DP, a move that has seen two camps emerge.
The absence of MPs Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani), Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), Mwambu Mabonga (Bumula), Dan Wanyama (Webuye West) and former Sports Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa during the event fueled speculation over a possible fall-out among Ruto’s allies.
The National Assembly Chief Whip Benjamin Washiali played host to the DP who was flanked by Malava MP Malulu Injendi, his Sirisia counterpart John Waluke, former Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and some MCAs.
A source told Sunday Standard that Dr Ruto wanted the event cancelled due to the wrangles but Mr Washiali insisted that it goes on.
“The DP had expressed reservations about the meeting after learning of the confusion, he wanted the leaders to thrash out their differences first,” said a source privy to the goings-on in the Jubilee camp.
“The Deputy President was in the picture of everything that was happening; he understands why some of the MPs skipped the event,” confided our source who did not want to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter.
Reached for comment on Saturday, Mr Shinali downplayed the rift, arguing that all supporters of the DP are working in harmony contrary to media reports.
“There is no bad blood between us, we support Ruto’s presidential bid and our position has not changed,” he said by telephone on Saturday.
Dr Ruto is keen to sway the region in his favor. He has made over 30 trips to the area since last year. The region had traditionally backed Raila Odinga.