Opposition leader Raila Odinga’s former Nyanza allies are warming to Deputy President William Ruto after they were defeated during the August 8, 2017, general election.
The four were part of the team that welcomed Deputy President William Ruto when he toured Nyanza region on Sunday and Monday with a clear message that they would rally the opposition stronghold to support the DP’s 2022 presidential bid.
The former lawmakers, James Rege (Karachuonyo), Martin Ogindo (Rangwe), Edick Anyang’a (Nyatike) and Oyugi Magwang’a (Kasipul Kabondo) stamped their support for Ruto saying the DP has everything it takes to lead Kenya and develop the country wholly.
“By commissioning projects in Homa Bay and Migori counties, he made the people feel truly in the government,” Rege told a leading local daily.
He said time has come for Kenyans to shun tribalism and elect leaders based on their development record and not tribe.
Ruto flew to Homa Bay and Migori on Sunday and Monday where he presided over the launch of multiple development projects.
Shockingly, however, almost all the elected leaders in the two counties were nowhere to be seen.
Those who were absent led by Suba South MP John Mbadi said they had not been invited to attend Ruto’s functions.
The only ODM elected leaders who welcomed Ruto were embattled Migori Governor Okoth Obado and Karachuonyo MP Adipo Okuome.