On Friday, several Gusii MPs had their first real test on Handshake and Tanga Tanga politics, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i's factor also being critical.

Do you have a lead on a newsworthy story? Share news tips with us here at Hivisasa!

For several months, most MPs have been supporting DP William Ruto's candidature ahead of 2022 polls, with some leaning towards interior minister Fred Matiang'i.

Those in Matiang'i's camp are riding on the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga. They believe Matiang'i should be Uhuru's successor.

During Friday's funeral of Dr Hezron Manduku, a number of MPs who have been supporting Dr Ruto changed their tune and supported the handshake.

Richard Tong'i (Nyaribari Chache), Ezekiel Mochogu (Nyaribari Masaba) and Jimmy Angwenyi of Kitutu Chache North were notable figures.

But South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro remained defiant and supported deputy president William Ruto in a rather unfriendly environment.

"Before you start telling us that you want to contest, help our people first. There is a lot of poverty around. If you are in government, focus on that," he said.

"We must stand with the pour people. We cannot use them as voting machines. That is why I believe in DP William Ruto and we shall support him," he said.

The youthful MP has been at loggerheads with Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i, accusing him of joining politics prematurely.

But those allied to Dr Matiang'i, among them Senator Okong'o Mogeni, accuse Tanga Tanga brigade of allegedly disrespecting the minister.

However, a number of MPs supporting Dr Ruto skipped the event. Joash Nyamoko, Vincent Kemosi and Shadrack Mose did not appear at the funeral.

#hivisasaoriginal