Seme Member of Parliament James Nyikal has come to the defence of his South Nyanza counterparts over allegations of snubbing Deputy President William Ruto.
Ruto on Sunday and Monday toured Homabay and Migori counties respectively, events that were skipped by all leaders from the Luo Nyanza region except two.
According to Nyikal, however, the snub was as a result of poor planning and preparation, adding that the leaders were not notified of Ruto's visit and chose to carry on with their businesses.
He observed that the absence was in no way associated with any malicious intent.
"Viongozi wa Nyanza hawana shida na Ruto, wao walikuwa wanafanya kazi zao maana wengi hawakuambiwa mapema wakajitayarisha (they were caught off guard, forcing them to skip the events)," said the lawmaker.
He added that the issue is being blown out of proportion all together as Ruto was accompanied by Migori Governor Okoth Obado, Kuria East and West lawmakers Marwa Kitayama and Mathias Robi.
"Sio eti hakukaribishwa maana Obado alikuwa pale na wabunge wachache kumpokea (The Governor and a few lawmakers received him in Migori)," he added.
The only other leader who joined Ruto during the visit was Karachuonyo lawmaker Adipo Okuome.
Ruto blankly hit out at the lawmakers, noting that the snub will not prevent him from touring the region.
He vowed to return to the county early next year.