Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga will return to North Rift early next month to popularise his party ahead of 2022 polls.

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In the last two months, Mr Odinga has visited the region specifically Elgeyo-Marakwet County twice, attending the retirement of Joshua Kutuny's mother-in-law and a burial of ODM official.

North Rift has traditionally backed Dr William Ruto, who is currently facing resistance from a section of his former troops like Kutuny and Silas Tiren.

Elgeyo-Marakwet County ODM chairman Micah Kigen says Handshake has stabilised Kenyan politics, adding that ODM will capitalise to make in-roads.

"The handshake has strengthened the principles of democracy and voters have appreciated the role of the opposition in effective governance,” Micah Kigen, Elgeyo Marakwet ODM Chairman.

He disclosed plans by Mr Odinga to re-open the Elgeyo Marakwet party branch office next month as part of the strategy to gain support in the region.

“What voters want is the democratic space to enable them make independent political decisions,” Mr Kigen said.

Mr Kutuny on Sunday fired back at the DP, who will be visiting Uasin Gishu on Monday, accusing him of being a let down to the Kalenjin community.

“What is emerging is that the DP has failed the Kalenjin community and is only interested in the presidency but there many leaders who can give him a run for his money in the presidential succession politics,” Mr Kutuny said.

But Keiyo South MP Daniel Rono dismissed his claims, arguing that Kutuny is being used by outsiders to undermine Dr Ruto.

“It very wrong for him (Mr Kutuny) to behave that way. He may have a divergent opinion but let him respect our leader,” said Mr Rono.