Edwin Abonyo, widower to departed Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso has lifted the lid on how the late county boss settled on former university professor Hillary Barchok as her deputy.
This was three years ago, when Barchok was a don at the Chuka University, with details indicating that the county boss settled on him without his knowledge, before informing him.
Speaking during Laboso's burial on Saturday, Abonyo added that this was followed by an intense search for the latter, ahead of the Jubilee Party primaries, which they proceeded to win.
He said that an initial attempt to consult him over his selection as Laboso's running mate was futile as he was out of the country, with attempts to reach him on phone also proving futile.
"We almost gave up as his phone was not going through, but eventually we got through to him and set up a meeting. He was a total stranger, but as fate had it, we were bound to run for this together and I am proud we made it," he said, according to the Wednesday Nation.
This was confirmed by the incoming governor who on Wednesday admitted that he had never been involved in politics previously.
He expressed his gratitude for having worked with the departed leader, vowing to stick to her dreams for the county now that he is taking over.
"I had not been actively involved in politics but I was a keen observer of current affairs in the country. I was lucky to serve under very experienced hands. Though Dr Laboso has rested, I shall follow in her footsteps and ensure her legacy is secured,” said Barchok.