Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua has enlisted opposition leader Raila Odinga among his good personal friends.
Speaking on Citizen Television on Sunday, the county chief revealed that nothing personal lies between them despite their different political stands and ideologies.
He even recalled having a conversation with the former Prime Minister recently, in line with Odinga's newfound political romance with President Uhuru Kenyatta, saying that the leader too considers him such.
"Raila has always been my friend. I even called him just the other day to congratulate him on the handshake," Mutua said.
"He has also personally told me that he likes me because I am principled, trustworthy and reliable hence cannot be moved," Mutua added.
With the two, however, likely to clash in the 2022 presidential election, with Mutua having declared his interest in succeeding President Uhuru Kenyatta who is approaching his retirement, the governor maintained that he is ready to battle it out in the ballot with the longtime presidential hopeful.
Though yet to announce his bid which would be the fifth after four unsuccessful attempts previously, Mutua expressed confidence of beating Odinga in the race.
"I will still run even if Raila runs. I will run against anyone else and I am sure I will emerge the winner," added the Maendeleo Chapchap party leader.
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