[Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandago in a past event. He is leading a rebellion that could scuttle William Ruto’s 2022 chances. Photo/Nation]
Deputy President William Ruto’s 2022 presidential chances could be diminish substantially should he fail to combat another rebellion led by Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandogo.
Already, Ruto is fighting a rebellion led by Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto, Baringo senator Gideon Moi and a host of MPs notably Johanna Ng’eno of Emurua Dikir.
But a row over Uasin Gishu leadership is gradually building with Mandogo, Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi and Alfred Keter of Nandi Hills accusing the DP of failing to persuade businessman Zedekiah Bundotich to bolt out of governorship race.
“If Central Kenya community cannot withdraw their support from my opponent, we are going to tell our people to vote opposition NASA,” said Mandago in protest to Kikuyu community whom he accuses of supporting the popular businessman commonly called Buzeki.
Although the DP is believed to have held a 2-hrs meeting at Sirikwa Hotel with the leaders, it is not clear whether Ruto agreed to persuade Buzeki, his close ally to drop his bid in favour of Mandogo.
During nominations, the Mandago led team accused DP Ruto’s handlers of alleged interfering with Uasin Gishu politics by plotting to rig him out.
On Thursday however, a defiant Buzeki vowed to settle his differences with Mandago on ballot in August polls.