This archive report was first published on 4 July 2020.
Deputy President William Ruto has downplayed the Jubilee party purge that saw his influence in the Senate and National Assembly reduced, saying it would not affect his bid to become the president of Kenya in 2022.
Speaking during a burial in Nandi County on July 3, 2020, Ruto asked Kenyans to pray for him as he completes his second term as the deputy president.
He urged residents not to get involved in politics that could spark animosity and conflict among them.
At the same time, Aldai Member of Parliament Cornelius Serem affirmed that no amount of intimidation would destroy their 2022 political goal.
Serem pointed out gaps in the ruling Jubilee party, saying the party management was misusing funds meant for grassroots offices.
He questioned how funds contributed monthly and other donations were spent, citing the example of Uasin Gishu, home of the deputy party leader, which had no party office.
However, Serem challenged the alleged opponents of the Deputy President to produce their best candidate to battle Ruto in 2022.
"If you see them coming together because of me, it is because I am not a weak candidate, pray for me," Ruto told the mourners.
"Even though there are many challenges in political parties and the country as a whole, all of us need to know that we can only succeed if we work together," he added.
