President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto high five each after a presser at state house. [Photo/standardmedia.co.ke]
President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto have been advised to rethink their game plan in the Rift Valley.
This comes after a survey released recently showed that NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga’s popularity has shot up.
Analysis of the latest Ipsos opinion poll indicates that the former prime minister is regaining his popularity in the region that overwhelmingly supported him in the 2007 elections.
The survey released on Tuesday last week suggests that Raila’s support in the Rift Valley has grown by 12 per cent over five months from 20 per cent to 32 per cent.
Political analyst Herman Manyora and Nairobi University lecturer says even though it is perceived that Uhuru has also gained some ground in opposition's strongholds, Jubilee should rethink its game plan in the Kalenjin nation.
“For me that 32 per cent for Raila, over and above what is happening, Uhuru gaining in the Coast and Western, appears to signal things to come. Jubilee should watch out carefully,” said Manyora in an interview with the Star.However, key Jubilee leaders have dismissed the opinion polls indications that Raila’s Rift Valley support is growing.“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,” said Uasin Gishu Governor Mandago.