[Deputy President William Ruto in a past event. He has been projected to face a tough moment ahead after three candidates perceived to be his rivals won in North Rift. Photo/Hivisasa.com]
Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandago, Oscar Sudi (Kapseret) and Alfred Keter of Nandi Hills could be dangerous to DP William Ruto’s influence in Rift Valley, warns political analyst Dickson Mokua.
While Sudi and Keter overcome strong resistance following their open rebellious stand against Jubilee policies in the past, they however managed to pull a cracker in Jubilee primaries.
But the real test for the DP was in Uasin Gishu governorship race in which the incumbent Jackson Mandago has in a number of occasions accused him of preferring businessman Zedekiah Bundotich who eventually lost to him with a substantive margin.
“Both Mandago, Keter and Sudi are dangerous to his grip in Rift Valley. They managed to sail through without his blessing and this might motivate their confidence,” he said in an interview.
Mokua added: “Although Ruto was not that open, it is evident that he wanted Buzeki for governorship and that is why Mandogo came out flames burning and this could lead to rivalry.”
The three held a mega rally in Eldoret last week after they were confirmed outright winners and hailed locals for ‘standing’ with them during ‘trial’ moments.
Although he hasn’t come out openly to congratulate winners in the Jubilee primaries, Ruto also lost his confident and Anabkoi MP Samuel Chepkonga.