Bomet Governor Isaac Rutto has cited an organised plan by the ruling Jubilee Party officials to deny him the party’s ticket to defend his seat in 2017 general elections
Speaking at Isiolo while opening an office for his Chama Cha Mashinani (CCM) party, Rutto said that he will not be intimidated by anyone to join the new Jubilee Party to defend his seat.
“I am aware that I will not be given the nomination even if I win the Jubilee Party primaries. I want to avoid unnecessary enmity among my good friends, I have resolved to be in Chama Cha Mashinani to stay,” said Rutto.
The governor has been a constant critic of the Jubilee leadership especially Deputy President William Ruto whom he said wants things done his way.
Governor Rutto asked the Jubilee leadership not to harass or intimidate those opposed to the new party saying that everyone is entitled to individual decisions.
He said that Kenyans should be at liberty to elect their preferred candidates but not those imposed on them.
He further accused the leadership of the DP's United Republican Party (URP) of dissolving without consulting its members.
“They did not consult party members before making the merger decision. It is, therefore, not necessary at all to criticize those who are opposed to JP,” added the Bomet boss.
He condemned those hiring goons to disrupt his political rallies and sponsoring motions at the county assembly to impeach him.
“If you don’t support our Mashinani party, please keep distance from the rallies instead of going to venues to cause mayhem,” Rutto added.
He asked the Jubilee government to respect the spirit of devolution by ensuring that they devolve at least 45% of the national revenue to the 47 counties for the implementation of their development projects.