Before the supposed entry of Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i to politics, Deputy President William Ruto enjoyed following from virtually all political leaders in Gusii.
But recently, Nyamira Woman Representative Jerusha Momanyi and Borabu MP Ben Momanyi quit his team, effectively joining Dr Matiang'i.
In a gathering recently at Ritibo SDA Church, Mrs Momanyi said her move was out of consciousness given that the region had seen Uhuru Kenyatta promote Matiang'i.
"We are happy as Abagusii following the elevation of Dr Matiang'i. We shall support our son. Those other people can wait until that time as we negotiate," she said.
The Matiang'i group has seen the Ruto's team intensify campaigns, but facing resistance from the ground. The team has however remained unbowed.
MPs Sylvanus Osoro, Shadrack Mose, Joash Nyamoko and Vincent Kemosi have been vocal in Ruto's camp, leading to retribution from among their constituents.
But Mr Osoro, while admitting pressure from Matiang'i's team, said that the Ruto team will continue traversing the region for the benefit of people.
"They can say what they want but some of us have stands. Dr Ruto is approachable and development conscious. We shall continue supporting him," he said.
On Thursday, Dr Ruto will be at Kisii National Polytechnic where he shall be attending graduation. The occasion could yet see politicians from either camps trading barbs.
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