[Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama addressing mourners at Ekerenyo grounds. A group of ODM and Jubile supporters exchanged blow sin the function. Photo/Nation]
Supporters allied to Orange Democratic Movement and Jubilee party on Sunday were embroiled in a scuffle in Nyamira ahead of Deputy President William Ruto’s tour scheduled this Monday.
With both ODM and Jubilee keen to win the vote rich county, that has traditionally supported opposition other than August 8 elections, politicians have earmarked it as battle ground.
Trouble started when anti-ODM supporters heckled Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama, a staunch ODM supporter when he stood to address mourners at former North Mugirango MP Atebe Marita’s requiem at Ekerenyo grounds.
In quick response, perceived ODM supporters started whisking Jubilee supporters away from the function leading to a confrontation that lasted for several minutes.
However, moderate youths managed to reconcile the two rival camps with both promising fireworks during the burial slated on Monday.
Barely a week after ODM leader Raila Odinga toured the region; Ruto will be seeking to consolidate votes from the region.
Last week, hundreds of locals protested against alleged intimidation by authorities on Chief Justice David Maraga, a move that has further put Jubilee administration under pressure.