A section of Western Kenya leaders allied to Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has laughed off Deputy President William Ruto's tours in the region.
The DP has been on a charm offensive in the region ahead of his 2022 presidential bid, which has seen him make numerous tours in the Western Kenya counties, consequently winning handsome support from some area leaders.
However, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and nominated MP Godfrey Osotsi have poked holes into his alleged inroads, saying that the region has enough leaders and its residents will not be swayed by his attempts.
“The people of Western know which leaders have their interests at heart, and it is not Ruto,” Osotsi told the Nation on Monday.
Sifuna on his part claimed that apart from former Senator Boni Khalwale, the DP has not won any other person.
“The DP and his cronies should re-evaluate what they are calling inroads in Western after their highly-expensive trips. How many key leaders have they acquired from our side? I think they can only brag of Boni Khalwale...but then Khalwale defected to Ruto's Jubilee in a small ceremony in his house in Malinya and not Bukhungu stadium or Muliro gardens where major political declarations are made,” he said.
The remarks were echoed by Vihiga and Kakamega Senators George Khaniri and Cleopa Malala who insisted that the region remains fully behind Raila.
The DP has over the last six months visited the region over ten times, trips that began in the run-up to the 2017 polls, which partially led to Jubilee Party wrestling away some elective seats from the opposition side.
Pundits have observed that he could be scavenging for his 2022 running mate, judging by the huge numbers the region has to offer.