[Bomet Governor Isaac Rutto in a past function. He is said to be behind Raila Odinga’s surge in Rift Valley. Photo/Nation]
Bomet Governor’s influence in Rift Valley could be the major reason behind opposition leader Raila Odinga’s upward surge in the vote rich region, says Dismas Mokua.
Having broken ranks with DP William Ruto, Governor Isaac Rutto has been leading an onslaught in the region, a reason behind a possible split in allegiance in Tuesday’s elections.
And Mokua says the trend could be detrimental to President Uhuru Kenyatta’s reelection chances given ability of NASA to gain in the region.
“Raila Odinga owes Isaac Rutto a lot. He has been consistent and certain in whatever he does. He has managed to properly sway a number of votes in favour of Odinga,” he says.
Mokua adds: “We are likely to see a scenario where NASA will score well from a number of counties than in 2013. These elections are not normal.”
Also leading an onslaught against Jubilee is Emurua Dikir MP Johanna Ng’eno, who is defending his seat on a KANU ticket.
At Bomet, Rutto is facing a lifetime political threat from Sotik MP Joyce Laboso, who is running on a Jubilee party ticket.