Political scientist Gideon Mamboleo believes Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto can be instrumental in sending the Jubilee government packing in 2017 if ODM party leader Raila Odinga considers backing him for the top post.
Raila is poised to challenge President Uhuru Kenyatta in next year's general election, his fourth attempt at the presidency.
He lost two elections in succession, all attributed allegedly to rigging, a reason why Mamboleo believes can be dealt with by Ruto’s presidential ambitions.
Speaking during an interview, Mamboleo said the Kalenjin community remains fundamental in Kenya's presidential elections and Isaac Ruto’s early bid could make residents shift their loyalty from Deputy President William Ruto.
“I have been observing the trends of our politics and sometimes they remain unpredictable. However, my feeling is that Raila who has acquired the status of a statesman should back an alternative candidate if he seriously wants change of leadership in the country,” he said.
Mamboleo added: “The Kalenjin community is fundamental to any presidential candidate due to its systematic voting pattern and numbers. If Raila backs Isaac Ruto, then my instincts tell me the Kalenjin would shift their loyalty to the governor rather than the DP and influence the 2017 outcome.”
His sentiments were, however, countered by historian Nyachieo Bogonko who termed Raila the ‘best’ candidate to beat Jubilee in 2017.
“In my thinking, the only candidate who can make Uhuru Kenyatta sweat is Raila. The 2017 elections will be stormy and Raila’s influence and long experience cannot be undermined,” he said.