BOMET, KENYA: Deputy President William Ruto will today visit the South Rift region against a backdrop of an emerging fall out between him, governors and Members of Parliament from the region over a myriad of issues affecting the residents.
Ruto is expected to preside over the launch off Imarisha Sacco (formerly Kipsigis Teachers Sacco) in Kericho County and later a fundraiser for 27 business people whose property was gutted down by a fire at Kembu in Bomet East constituency two weeks ago.
Recently, area several governors from the region snubbed Ruto’s meeting held at his Sugoi home.
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Deputy President William Ruto is scheduled to visit the South Rift region today amid escalating political tensions that have been brewing for several months.
The visit comes at a time when the region, once a stronghold of the Kenya Kwanza alliance, is witnessing increasing public discontent and political fragmentation.
Rising Political Tensions in the South Rift
Protests over the controversial Finance Bill 2024 have intensified, with residents in the South Rift openly expressing their dissatisfaction with President Ruto and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
These protests have highlighted underlying issues such as unfulfilled development promises and perceived neglect by the central government.
In Kericho County, for instance, the construction of the Londiani Referral Hospital remains stalled despite repeated assurances, leading to frustration among locals.
Furthermore, the region has experienced internal political conflicts, notably in Bomet County, where supporters of Governor Hillary Barchok and Senator Hillary Sigei clashed during a presidential visit in March 2024.
The altercation disrupted the event and underscored the deepening divisions within the local political landscape.
Strained Relations Between Ruto and Gachagua
Compounding the situation is the reported fallout between President Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.
The deputy president’s political ambitions, particularly his efforts to consolidate support in the Mt Kenya region, have reportedly created tensions within the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Some leaders have accused Gachagua of prioritizing regional politics over national unity, while others suggest that his actions are part of a broader strategy to position himself for the 2027 general elections.
Government’s Response and Future Outlook
In an attempt to address the growing unrest, President Ruto has been accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on development tours in the Rift Valley.
These joint appearances aim to project unity and reassure the public of the administration’s commitment to addressing regional concerns.
However, the effectiveness of these efforts remains to be seen, as the South Rift electorate becomes increasingly vocal about their grievances.
The region’s future political alignment could significantly impact the upcoming 2027 elections, making it a critical area for the Kenya Kwanza alliance to address promptly.
As Deputy President Ruto visits the South Rift today, all eyes will be on how he navigates these complex political dynamics and whether his presence can quell the rising discontent in the region.
