[Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama (right) in a past event. He is said to have saved Josphat Nanok from Uhuru’s onslaught. Photo/Nation]
Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama played a vital role in saving Council of Governors chairman Josphat Nanok from a possible Jubilee onslaught.
President Uhuru Kenyatta had reportedly instructed Jubilee governors to vote in Kwale's Salim Mvurya days to Friday's voting.
"We were keen to sweep all seats available as Jubilee through our numerical strength," said Tharaka Nithi's Muthomi Njuki.
Divisions within Jubilee and a consensus fronted by Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong'o however gave Nanok lifeline for at least six more months.
But it is Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama who had a different approach and he is said to have lobbied for a bipartisan approach on the issue.
"Nyagarama was concerned on party politics which was being used as a weapon. He took it as a challenge and individually talked to all governors in person.
"Particularly, he pleaded with them to allow Nano finish his term to avoid NASA, Jubilee tussles in the council," reports the Sunday Nation.
At home, Nyagarama is fighting a major poll petition filed by his close challenger Walter Nyambati of Jubilee.
He is among few governors who survived in August polls that saw several county bosses lose to newcomers.