Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot has reacted after the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party lost in the Ugenya and Embakasi South by-elections.
Cheruiyot attributed Friday's by-election wins in the two constituencies to Deputy President William Ruto, arguing that Kenyans have rejected the party's empty rhetoric.
Wiper Party candidate Julius Mawathe retained his Embakasi South seat after defeating his fiercest rival Irshad Sumra of ODM party.
In Ugenya, David Ochieng who vied on a Movement of Democracy and Growth (MDG) party ticket made a return to the National Assembly after beating Raila Odinga-led ODM's candidate Chris Karan.
In a tweet on Saturday, Cheruiyot opined the twin win should be credited to the DP since the voters backed the winners after they were allegedly labelled 'Ruto's men'.
"ODM went to Ugenya and Embakasi South. They made William Ruto a campaign issue. Described their competitors as Ruto's Men. The voters have returned the verdict. Ruto any day over your empty rhetorics," the senator said.
ODM, however, has downplayed the DP's alleged role in the by-election.
"We had a tough day at the ballot. The entire ODM party put in their best effort but we have come up short in both Ugenya and Embakasi South. I thank all those who turned out to support us. Congratulations are in order Hon Mawathe and Wiper Movement. Godspeed," said party Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.