President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto after last month's declaration of the election outcome. [Photo/ PSCU]
After spending five years in the opposition, the people of Western Kenya are already ripping benefits for supporting the re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta, even before he formally secures his seat.
A number of key leaders from the region had dumped NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga for President Uhuru Kenyatta, who they praised for initiating development projects in the area. The Jubilee candidate performed beyond expectations in Western, with three MPs elected under the Jubilee Party. Former Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka, who fiercely campaigned for President Kenyatta in Western, has already been elected to be the speaker of the senate. Former Budalangi MP Ababu Namwamba, who has become a close ally to President Kenyatta, is expected to land a top job if President Kenyatta defeats Raila Odinga in August. Mumias East MP Benjamin Washiali has replaced Katoo Ole Metito as the Chief Whip in the National Assembly. He will be deputized by nominated MP Cecily Mbarire. Here are some of the leaders from Western Kenya supporting President Kenyatta’s re-election: Eugine Wamalwa, Ken Lusaka, Ababu Namwamba, Paul Otuoma, Cyrus Jirongo, Moses Akaranga, Fred Ngumo, Alfred Khang’ati, Benjamin Washiali, Kenneth Marende, Mwamba Mabonga, Mary Emaase, Didimus Barasa, Emmanuel Wangwe and Chris Okemo. Other regions that strongly supported the president, such as Coast, Gusii and Ukambani are likely to have a strong presence in Uhuru Kenyatta administration.