Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen’s latest allegations against opposition leader Raila Odinga are most likely part of an ongoing plan to tame the leader ahead of the approaching 2022 polls.
The Senator on Thursday claimed that the former Prime Minister is the chief planner of the ongoing Mau Forest evictions, accusing him of planning to cause a barrier between Deputy President William Ruto and his 2022 presidential bid.
This is most likely an attempt to portray Odinga as an enemy of the people, to sabotage his moves, considering that he (Murkomen) is Ruto’s close ally and likely mouthpiece in this case.
It means that Ruto’s quarters is already aware that the Orange party chief will be making another presidential attempt, with the plan being to lock him out of the Rift Valley region.
The argument is, however, lame, as Raila, despite having big influence and a huge support base, remains a civilian and cannot, in any way, instruct the police to move anyone.
Such orders can only be given by Ruto, Uhuru and a few other top security bosses, meaning that the DP’s quarters is operating in fear.
By defaming the veteran leader, Ruto will have a good campaign shot against him, while using the very same excuse to portray Kalenjins as victims of the last two administrations, hoping for sympathy votes.
On his side, Murkomen who is clearly after political mileage is aware that the Mau issue will make him bigger politically.
He will emerge as a defender of the people and a whistle blower, a plan that is however set for a collapse as a result of the emerging negative reactions and condemnations from Kenyans and fellow leaders.