A showdown is looming in the rift valley after businessman Buzeki Bundotich Kiprop made an announcement over his intention to vie for the Uasin Gichu Gubernatorial Seat. – By Gerald Gekara.
The flambouyant owner of Buzeki Enterprises has been a fierce critic of the Deputy President William Ruto and the tangatanga/hustler movement, vowing to dismantle his influence and bring development to the people of Uasin Gichu.
While speaking on the Building Bridges Initiative, Buzeki urged the county government of Uasin Gichu to pass the document, saying some of the proposals are about bringing Kenyans together and not for political gain.
“BBI will usher in constitutional and functional office of the Opposition leader. Serious Checks and balances, leading to enhanced accountability in Government, will be realized. The days of confusions resulting from undefined political come we stay relationship that is characterized by blame games will be over.” Buzeki said in a Facebook post.
Despite the anger and ridicule he has received for siding with former prime minister Raila Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta for supporting the BBI, Buzeki has long been admired for having a stance against the ‘kingpin’ mentality common in Rift Valley politicians.
Uasin Gichu is the home turf of the Deputy President, who’s influence is great to anyone wishing to run within its boundaries.
With more than 460, 000 registered voters, Uasin Gishu is largely cosmopolitan, with the Kalenjin constituting more than 70 per cent of the residents, while the Kikuyu and the Luhya have substantial numbers.
This dynamics may auger well with Buzeki if he gets backing from Uhuru-allied leaders.
His biggest challenge is Soy legislator Caleb Kositany who has interests in succeeding Mandago.
The vocal critic of the president and the handshake is a close ally of Ruto and Mandago. He is an influential county politician who may be the candidate of choice for the newly formed UDA Party.
