Jubilee Party leaders are said to be worried over the growing influence of Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto in the vote rich Rift Valley region.
The leaders say the Chama Cha Mashinani leader is quickly gaining influence in William Ruto’s backyard, by building support of leaders who are not in good terms with the Deputy President, following the dissolving of URP.
The Governor’s recent home coming rally in Bomet attracted an unusual large crowd, something said to be sending a clear signal to the Jubilee camp that it might not be business as usual come 2017 polls.
Ruto had returned from South Africa where he went to seek specialised treatment after he picked up an injury during an outburst with police.
Jubilee’s Franklin Bett had warned the President Uhuru Kenyatta led camp, that the party might face severe consequences over the selection of National Assembly Deputy Speaker Joyce Laboso, to head the party’s presidential campaign in the South Rift.
Jubilee did not appoint key leaders from Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Kericho, Baringo and Elgeyo Marakwet counties to its campaign team.
Bett says ignoring leaders from the region could hurt Jubilee in 2017 general election.
"Why would you assume, the two regions, with its governors, senators and MPs, someone could be making serious blunders. Uhuru and his deputy are no longer interested in the region's support," he said.
The former Roads Minister also noted that Isaac Ruto’s influence and popularity was growing among the Kipsigis.
“Jubilee had to sweat to win the Kericho senatorial by-election. This could easily be replicated in wards, constituencies, and county seats not only in Kipsigis land but beyond. Isaac Ruto is currently sowing the seeds of discord within Jubilee.”
He added, “Chama Cha Mashiani has made serious inroads in Bomet. They won the Nyongores ward seat in a hotly contested election despite the Jubilee administration have mobilised its massive machinery. Kanu is significantly covering ground in Baringo and West Pokot. The two parties will upset the ruling coalition in the next election if they do not up their game.”