Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa has declared that Deputy President William Ruto would achieve a decisive electoral victory if the 2022 presidential poll were held immediately, citing increasing public backing and internal party tensions.
Speaking as a FORD Kenya representative within the National Super Alliance (NASA) coalition, Wamalwa argued that efforts by certain Jubilee Party figures to undermine Ruto's ambitions were inadvertently boosting his popularity among Kenyans. The legislator specifically criticized President Uhuru Kenyatta for allegedly reneging on a 2013 pledge to support Ruto's presidential bid after his second term concluded in 2022.
"The president stated clearly he would serve for 10 years then back his deputy William Ruto for another 10, but we see signs of betrayal. This distancing is detrimental," Wamalwa said in a video statement viewed on March 11, 2019.
Wamalwa contended that anti-graft campaigns targeting Ruto and Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga were politically motivated, aiming to derail the DP's presidential aspirations. He emphasized Ruto's leadership credentials and pledged to prioritize development for Uasin Gishu County, where the deputy president originates.
"Ruto is our neighbor. Electing him president would ensure our region receives focused development," Wamalwa asserted.
The MP's endorsement comes as Ruto faces competition from Amani National Congress leader Musalia Mudavadi and FORD Kenya's Moses Wetang'ula. Wamalwa's remarks highlight shifting political dynamics in western Kenya, where Ruto has secured backing from multiple legislators including Bungoma's John Waluke and Kakamega's Boni Khalwale.
Source: Tuko.co.ke
