Rift Valley Divided in Ruto Succession Battle

There is a stir in the Rift Valley, suggesting a forthcoming political reorganization.

The question still lingers on whether these advances will bring about a significant change in the leadership of the area ahead of the 2032 General Election. The succession of President William Ruto is at stake, as he will complete his second and final term if he wins the 2027 re-election battle. This leaves a significant void for the region's leaders as they scramble to become the new political figurehead in the Rift Valley.

Already, the political manoeuvring has sparked a verbal battle between governors, MPs, and the influential Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen. Notable contenders in the succession race include former Council of Governors chairman Isaac Ruto, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, and Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago. Additionally, Cabinet Secretaries Davis Chirchir (Energy), Florence Bore (Labour and Social Protection), Simion Chelugui (Cooperatives), and Mr. Murkomen are also prominent figures vying for the position.

The public dispute that began at public events has now escalated into a competition involving leaders from the North and Central Rift. Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno is credited with initiating the discussion, which has also involved Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and Kericho Governor Erick Mutai. Ngeno has accused unidentified individuals of plotting against elected officials in Bomet, Kericho, Nakuru, and Narok to further their agenda.

Senator Kiprotich Cherargei and Woman Rep Cynthia Muge are the most recent individuals to challenge Murkomen regarding the allocation of resources for roads in the Rift Valley region. Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap is part of the group of lawmakers backing Ngeno's assertions that the distribution of resources in the area is biased. Dr Mutai affirms that Kenyans will support President Ruto, but they will not align themselves with ministers who undermine elected leaders in the South Rift. Murkomen, on the other hand, has defended himself against the accusations.