President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto are embroiled in a political battle over the scramble for Gusii votes, a source privy to the ongoing silent battles has indicated.
According to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to sensitivity of the matter, the recent entrance of Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi to gubernatorial race has even escalated the war between the two.
The source says, while Kenyatta is keen to back senator Chris Obure due to his political network for governor, Ruto is determined to have Maangi on the throne due to his 2022 presidential aspirations.
"There is a political feud between two camps in Jubilee on matters Kisii politics. One camp led by Obure has a backing of Kenyatta while the Maangi team is backed by Ruto," said the source.
The source adds: "Obure is also close to Nyachae (simon) and Uhuru still believes that old man can deliver for him. In return, Charles Nyachae is going for senatorial seat on Jubilee."
Till last week, Maangi was supporting Obure's candidature before making unprecedented move by joining the race.
The two however, have battle for Jubilee ticket in primaries scheduled later in March this year.
Political scientist Bogonko Nyachieo also believes that the president will be keen to work with Obure, who ditched ODM, due to his political network in Gusii region.
"Obure is important to Kenyatta than Ruto. He is well connected politically and can perhaps help him garner a few votes than Maangi.