Despite having a smooth working relationship in public, the power struggle rifts between Kisii Governor James Ongwae and his Deputy Joash Maangi seems to be escalating daily.
Maangi, who has since fallen out of favour with sponsorship party ODM, has yet again openly hinted his intentions to run for gubernatorial seat.
Speaking on Saturday at Kitutu Chache South in company of area MP Richard Onyonka, Maangi said his time to take Kisii County to a ‘desired’ destination had come and challenged County leaders to back his bid.
“I am a servant void of politics of hatred and rhetoric. My time has come and it’s my humble prayer to Kisii People and area leadership to support me so that I can take you to a desired destination,” Maangi said.
According to Maangi, his leadership would eradicate rampant clanism and corruption which had allegedly marred the county leadership.
“I think we all know powers of Deputy Governors. We are rarely involved in decision making and that’s why we should not be blamed in a number of wrong decisions,” Maangi added.
“We are facing clanism and corruption challenges and I believe if I get your mandate that is one of the areas that needs total overhaul. We want transparent and equitable leadership that serves people without bias,” he added.
However, governor Ongwae has remained tight lipped over his unsettled Deputy and rumours that he will also face challenge from area Senator Chris Obure.
Maangi, a close ally of Deputy President William Ruto has already a backing from a number of area MPs who have fallen out publicly with James Ongwae.
Photo: Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi (in a blue tie) with Mr. Richard Onyonka. The unsettled Deputy has yet again hinted his gubernatorial ambitions raising questions among supporters about his working relationship with Governor Ongwae/Abuga Makori)