Defiant Coast Opposition MPs Vow to Continue Supporting Deputy President William Ruto

A section of coast Members of Parliament drawn from the Opposition have vowed to continue supporting Deputy President William Ruto's 2022 presidential bid despite warning from ODM.

Led by firebrand Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa, the leaders said it was unfortunate that their party was threatening them with action when the handshake between President Kenyatta and Opposition leader Raila Odinga was meant to unite the country.

“I am working with Deputy President William Ruto because my party leader Raila Odinga embraced the handshake with President Kenyatta."

“He (Raila) said it’s over; it’s water under the bridge, we need to work together and focus on the future. That’s what we are doing and there should be no problem with this,” Ms Jumwa said.

Speaking on Saturday when they accompanied Deputy President William Ruto in a rally at Vanga grounds in Kwale County, the MPs said no amount of intimidation will stop them from rallying behind Ruto.

“We are tired of leaders engaging in empty rhetoric at the expense of development. That’s why we want to work with those who are committed to solving problems facing our people,” said Ms Jumwa.

Addressing residents at the rally, Ruto said the government is ready to work with leaders from across the political divide and dismissed those opposed to his countrywide tours.

“What I am doing is what I was elected to do and I wonder why some people are complaining. I have not complained about other peoples work. Everyone should do his or her work,” he said.

“Some leaders should not be scared of the teamwork between Jubilee and Opposition leaders because we are embracing all Kenyans whether they voted for us or not,” the DP added.

ODM's Msambweni MP Suleiman Dori, who  is the Chairman of Coast Parliamentary Group echoed Jumwa's sentiments, noting that the coast region was tired of tired of being in the Opposition.

“We are working together on matters of development. Time for elections is over and that’s why we are embracing unity and teamwork in solving people’s problems,” Dori said.

Other MPs present included Stanley Muthama (Lamu West), Sharrif Athman of Lamu East, Gertrude Mbeyu (Women Rep, Kilifi), Lydia Haika (Women Rep, Taita Taveta), Christine Zawadi (nominated) and Owen Baya (Kilifi North).

Others were Jones Mwaruma (Taita Taveta), Kazim Tandaza of Matuga, Benjamin Tayari of Kinango and Andrew Mwadime of Mwatate.