[NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga. A recent opinion poll conducted by research firm Ipsos Synovate has showed that his popularity is rising in Rift Valley. Courtesy: The Star]
A section of Jubilee Party leaders have dismissed an opinion poll conducted by Ipsos Synovate that suggested that NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga's popularity is growing in Deputy President William Ruto's backyard of Rift Valley.
Speaking separately, the leaders noted that Rift Valley was firmly in Jubilee Party, adding that the region will overwhelmingly vote for President Uhuru Kenyatta who is seeking re-election.
“Those thinking Raila will get any votes here are in dreamland. We will ensure the entire Rift Valley votes almost to the last man for Kenyatta,” Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandago declared.
Nakuru gubernatorial hopeful on Jubilee Party ticket Lee Kinyanjui downplayed the poll, describing President Kenyatta's support in the region as "unshakable."
“Raila has only inherited supporters of [ANC’s] Musalia Mudavadi and [Bomet Governor and CCM chief] Isaac Ruto has brought nothing. Support for President Uhuru and William Ruto in this region is unshakable,” he said.
His sentiments were reiterated by Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen, who observed that Mr Odinga's popularity was instead dwindling, contrary to what the poll had showed.
“Whoever is misleading Raila that support is growing should be forgiven. If there is any change, it is that Raila has lost more ground,” the lawmaker said.