Aaron Cheruiyot, the Jubilee Party candidate for the Kericho Senate seat, has been endorsed by Dikembe, a friend and acquaintance from their time at Moi University.
Dikembe recalls meeting Cheruiyot when he returned to the university after a suspension, and notes that even then, Cheruiyot was a supporter of William Ruto and worked to create conditions for the Rift Valley region to exit the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Cheruiyot's actions during this time, including his role in spreading the narrative that Raila Odinga was responsible for Ruto's ICC indictment, have led Dikembe to conclude that Cheruiyot has no political core and is driven by a desire to advance Ruto's interests.
Background and Politics ¶
According to Dikembe, Cheruiyot was part of a group of students at Moi University who were influenced by Ruto and worked to undermine ODM's support in the region. This effort was successful, in part due to the disorganization of ODM's grassroots machine and the effective spread of propaganda by Ruto's supporters.
Dikembe notes that while Cheruiyot is a skilled persuader and a good person at a personal level, his lack of a political core and his willingness to advance Ruto's interests without question make him a tragic figure in Kenyan politics.
Endorsement and Friendship ¶
Despite their differences, Dikembe has endorsed Cheruiyot for the Kericho Senate seat, citing their friendship and shared history. However, Dikembe makes it clear that his endorsement is not an expression of support for Cheruiyot's politics, but rather a personal gesture.
