Elgeyo Marakwet County is divided over the succession of Senator Kipchumba Murkomen, who was nominated by President William Ruto to lead the Ministry of Transport, Roads, and Public Works.
During the funeral service for Henry Rotich, which Murkomen attended, a group of county leaders warned the outgoing senator and the UDA leadership against meddling in county politics.
Marakwet East MP David Kangogo asked Murkomen in his address on Saturday, October 1, to allow the people to choose a leader who they believe is best suited to represent them.
“Before William Ruto took you in and made you his protege, it is the people who elected you and put you in the spotlight. So, we do not want you to endorse anyone, let the people anoint another young lad to take your place,” Kangogo remarked.
Gideon Kimaiyo, his Keiyo South counterpart, claimed that he had learned that a number of politicians vying for the senatorial seat had gathered in Nairobi to seek party endorsement.
“People who think that you can sit pretty and wait to be endorsed in Nairobi, you are mistaken. As for you, Murkomen, do not let anyone clutch onto you, with the hope of getting your support,” Kimaiyo stated.
In response to the leaders’ call, Murkomen, who is serving his third term as Senator, stated that he would remain neutral and respect the will of the people.
“It is the people who will decide who will become our next senator, and I will support whoever will be elected 100 percent,” the Cabinet Secretary nominee affirmed.
So far, at least 30 people have expressed interest in running for senator. Former governor Alex Tolgos, renowned activist Jerotich Seii, and real estate and lawyer Tim Kichumba are among them.
The inclusivity factor may play a role in what is expected to be a close race, with leaders arguing that the seat should be left to Keyio South, which has not produced a governor or senator since devolution began.
With the UDA’s wave sweeping across the Rift Valley region in the August 9 General Election, any candidate who secures the party ticket stands a better chance of winning the seat.
