Deputy President William Ruto's running mate, Rigathi Gachagua, has been at the center of a controversy in Baringo County after urging independent politicians who lost in the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) primaries to withdraw from the race.
During the Kenya Kwanza economic forum for Baringo County last week, Mr. Gachagua warned the 'rebels' that they should not expect any assistance from the DP if they lose in the General Election.
Mr. Gachagua stated, 'Independent candidates are very selfish people who are pushing for their own interests and have no policies.'
However, the aggrieved independents responded by saying that Kenya Kwanza was an alliance bringing together different parties, including independent candidates who support DP Ruto's presidential bid.
They urged Mr. Gachagua to stop the attacks, saying that they were not interested in seeking favors from a party and only cared about the interests of the people of Baringo.
Mr. Gachagua had indicated that in appointments to the county or national governments, priority would be given to those who lost in primaries and remained loyal to the party despite the outcome.
Mr. Gachagua warned, 'When you lose in the General Election, don't come back to us again begging for assistance because the doors will be closed.'
Mr. Gachagua also stated that the party would give ears to those who were loyal to the party, but those who defied the party and lost in the elections would be on their own.
Mr. Gachagua's comments have been met with resistance from some of the independent politicians in Baringo County, who have vowed to continue with their campaigns despite the warnings.
