[Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery in a past event. His death puts Ntutu family at pole position to succeed in Maa politics. Photo/Nation]
Undoubtedly the outstanding Maasai leader, Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery’s death opens another succession struggle in Maa politics.
At the tiem of his sudden death, Nkaissery was the most senior Maasai politician having been appointed as a Cabinet Secretary.
Coming at a time the Maa community was looking for John Keen and William Ntimama’s death, Nkaissery was at the pole position the take over as spokesperson of Maa community.
But the unfortunate event puts outgoing Narok Senator Stephen Ntutu at pole position to control Maa politics which are usually clan based.
Ntutu, who quit politics to pave way for his Brother Patrick Ntutu’s governorship aspirations, is highly respected across Maa community given his experience in politics.
Narok, Kajiado, Samburu and Laikipia Counties have been earmarked as swing regions with both Raila Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta traversing the region in search of votes.
Critically, Nkaissery’s death could be a huge blow to Kenyatta and with Ntutu’s chances now high, Odinga’s chances could be boosted given his affiliation to CCM party.