DP Ruto in Kericho to drum up support for JAP candidate

Deputy President William Ruto is back in Kericho County to campaign for Jubilee Alliance Party’s (JAP) senatorial candidate, Aaron Cheruyot.

The Deputy President is expected to hold four political rallies to drum up support for political newcomer Cheruyot.

Ruto returns to the county after 3 days and his visit comes in the wake of heightened political activity, pitting Cheruyot against Kenya African National Union’s (KANU) candidate Paul Sang. 

With just 16 days to the by-elections, political parties have heightened campaigns in a bid to woo Kericho voters.

But the DP is back to hold rallies in Kipkelion West, Soin, Sigowet, Belgut and Buret constituencies.

Ruto’s vote-hunting mission comes at a time when he appears to be losing clout, especially in south rift where Jubilee rebels have pitched tent to support the KANU candidate.

Critics have accused the ruling coalition of neglecting the region. On Thursday, Ruto apologized to Kericho residents for the perceived neglect promising that the tidings are about to change.

On Saturday afternoon, Ruto is expected to neutralize the KANU wave in the area.

On Friday, Sang got a major boost when KANU leaders together with Jubilee rebels, led by Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto, held a major rally at Kapkatet to campaign for him.

JAP’s Cheruiyot has been criticized by his opponents because of his youth and family ties with the former Senator Charles Keter, who is now the Energy CS.

Cheruiyot has, however, been involved in a door to door hunt for votes and Saturday’s mission by the DP is intended to boost his chances of succeeding Keter as Kericho’s Senator.