This archive report was first published on 5 July 2019.
West Pokot Politics: Dennis Ruto Kapchok's Rise Sparks Tension ¶
July 5, 2019
Dennis Ruto Kapchok, alias Mulmulwas, has been making headlines in West Pokot after declaring his intention to vie for the senatorial seat. His rise in popularity has sparked tension between his camp and that of former governor Simon Kachapin, who is also eyeing the seat.
According to sources, Kachapin and his deputy, Titus Lotee, had been funding Mulmulwas to frustrate the current governor, John Lonyangapuo. However, the scheme hit a snag after Mulmulwas rejected a job offer from Deputy President William Ruto, accusing Lonyangapuo and county commissioner Apollo Okello of misleading Ruto.
It is alleged that Kachapin and Lotee withdrew support for Mulmulwas after realizing that he was gaining popularity and could potentially dislodge Murgor from vying for the senatorial seat. Mulmulwas has been a vocal critic of Lonyangapuo's government projects in the area, which has made him a target for Kachapin's camp.
As the political landscape in West Pokot continues to shift, Mulmulwas is now working on a formula to finish Kachapin politically. The situation has become complicated, with Kachapin's son, Kevin, suggesting that his father may opt to vie for the senator's seat in the next polls.
