'I Believe in God Not Witchcraft': DP William Ruto Hits Back at Francis Atwoli

Deputy President William Ruto has hit back at Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) secretary-general Francis Atwoli over claims that Ruto's will not be on the 2022 presidential ballot.

Speaking in Kakamega County on Sunday, Ruto said that unlike people such as Atwoli who believe witchcraft, he is guided by God.

He also noted that the 2022 presidential contest will be between those who believe in God and those who believe in witchcraft.  

“In this country right now, the contest is between two groups; those who believe in God and those who believe in witchcraft. When you hear someone saying that he has been told by witch-doctors that a certain person will be on the ballot and the other will not… it tells you a lot about where the country is right now," Ruto said while addressing faithful at the Salvation Army Citadel Church.

He added: “But just pray for such people so that they can seek the kingdom of God first and stop these other things messing up the country."

On Saturday, Atwoli said that he is certain that Ruto will not be in the race to succeed President Kenyatta in 2022.

“I assure you that after the next elections, Governor Ali Hassan Joho will be part of the next government. In 2022 we shall elect the president in an election that will be very peaceful since we shall have amended the Constitution,” said Atwoli during a fundraiser in Lamu.

He added: “The name of William Samoei Ruto will not be there (on the ballot)… You can take it to the bank."

Other leaders accompanying Ruto to Kakamega also told off Atwoli over his remarks.

Former Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale said: “Atwoli you are an old man… Instead of cursing us, pave the way for young leaders so that we can compete with them. And by the way Atwoli you know the history of the Luhya people. A curse from where you come from cannot hold on a Luhya leader like Dr. Boni Khalwale."

On his part, Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu says the Mt. Kenya region will rally behind Ruto in 2022 come what may.

“Kiambu watu washaaamua… Mt. Kenya region sisi tushaamua. Namnajua sisi tunaangalianga sasawa mahali kuna matunda. Sisi hatufuatangi hadithi sisi tunafuata kitendo ile tunaona. Na huyu jamaa hustler huyu atakua President wetu 2022,” says Waititu.