This archive report was first published on 2 November 2021.
UDA Members Accuse Kimilili MP of Working with Ruto's Rivals ¶
On Tuesday, November 2, 2021, United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party members in Bungoma County accused Kimilili Member of Parliament Dismus Barasa of secretly working with Ford Kenya leaders, who are reportedly wooing Deputy President William Ruto.
The members, led by Kabuchai chairperson Francis Namisasi, faulted Barasa for sidelining them in preparations to host Deputy President William Ruto, who is set to visit the county on Friday, November 5.
They claimed that Barasa does not include them in meetings but secretly holds late-night talks with Ford Kenya leaders, including Kabuchai Member of Parliament Majimbo Kalasinga.
Barasa has dismissed the allegations, stating that no elections had been held to decide the county's leadership.
"Some people have given themselves UDA leadership positions in Bungoma. As far as I'm concerned, there is no day we have held elections to decide who will lead. Maybe next year, we will do elections," Barasa stated.
Barasa further stated that the Ford Kenya leaders in question were his friends and that the people should not dictate who he spends time with.
"I have heard people say that I should not work with Kalasinga. I want to tell you that you cannot and will never choose friends for me. I choose friends for myself depending on how I've seen them. I will continue walking with Majimbo Kalasinga because he is my friend and my relative. I am still speaking with my friend I will continue to do that," Barasa noted.
He called upon locals to ignore petty politics and urged them to turn up in large numbers and give DP Ruto a heroic reception.
