This archive report was first published on 19 November 2021.
Lee Kinyanjui, the Governor of Nakuru, has dismissed speculation that he is eyeing the Deputy President position under Raila Odinga's ODM party in the 2022 presidential election.
Speaking at a land-issuance ceremony for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Rongai, Governor Kinyanjui stated that he will be seeking re-election as Governor in the August 9, 2022 General Election.
The rumors emerged after Governor Kinyanjui was seen accompanying Raila Odinga at various campaign rallies across the country.
President Odinga is expected to announce his presidential bid on December 9, 2021.
During an interview with a Kamba-language radio station last week, President Odinga stated that he had not yet selected a running mate.
"I have not announced that I will be running for president. Similarly, claims that I have chosen a running mate from the Mount Kenya region are false – no decision has been made," he said.
Governor Kinyanjui maintained that he will be seeking re-election in the final term to complete his development projects.
"I know people are nominating me as a potential Deputy President. It's not bad. It shows that Kenyans have faith in me. But I confirm that I will be seeking the Governor of Nakuru seat in the next General Election," Governor Kinyanjui stated.
He will be facing off against four other gubernatorial candidates who have already announced their intentions to run in the 2022 election.
Among them is his long-time political rival, Senator Susan Kihika of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, led by Deputy President William Ruto.
Governor Kinyanjui revealed that he will be seeking re-election through his Ubuntu People's Forum (UPF) party.
"I am a member of Jubilee, but I have now allied with like-minded politicians to form the UPF party. We will use this party to champion the interests of Nakuru residents within the next government," Governor Kinyanjui stated.
Although UPF has not been officially launched, it has gained significant support in various parts of the country.
UPF was previously known as the Citizens Convention Party (CCP) before its name change.
The party is led by Governor Kinyanjui's allies, including Samuel Kinya Rukahu, Kenneth Kuria Mbaria, Beatrice Nyawira Wambugu, and Njoroge Gichuhi.
Ms. Wambugu is Governor Kinyanjui's political advisor.
"I will support President Odinga in the 2022 presidential election. Our new party will back President Odinga," Governor Kinyanjui stated.
