Deputy President William Ruto's quest to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta suffered yet again another fatal blow on Friday, with National Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Jimmy Angwenyi crossing over.
Dr Ruto has made numerous trips to Kisii and Nyamira Counties in the last few months and Angwenyi has been instrumental in his bid to conquer Gusii region.
Speaking in Friday at Nyanturago village during the burial of Dr Hezron Manduku, Mr Angwenyi, one of the oldest MPs from the region, backed Raila Odinga's BBI team.
The Kitutu Chache North MP also pleaded with Mr Odinga to back Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i for the country's top seat in 2022.
"We have come of age. The constitution should be amended to accommodate more people to the executive. The government should be all inclusive," he said.
"I fully support BBI. Prime Minister Raila kindly look at our child Matiang'i. He is capable of bringing something different. I know you'll not leave him to walk alone," he said.
His declaration comes amid intensive regrouping by Dr Matiang'i, who is keen to solidify his support in Gusii region ahead of 2022.
Also, Nyaribari Masaba MP Ezekiel Mochogu and his Nyaribari Chache counterpart Richard Tong'i hinted possibility of dumping Dr Ruto. The two pledged to support BBI.
Only South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro who stood firm and defended Dr Ruto, insisting that he has a right to fight for what he believes in.
"You only live once. Kenya is a democratic country and we support whoever we believe in. I am convinced that Dr Ruto is the man to beat," he said, although he had tactfully praised Raila Odinga and Matiang'i.
Dagoretti North MP Simba Arati blasted MPs backing Dr Ruto, arguing that they are certified thieves who should be tried in court.
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