This archive report was first published on 20 September 2019.
William Ruto Defends Uhuru-Raila Handshake Amid Kibra Seat Competition ¶
Deputy President William Ruto has maintained that the Uhuru-Raila handshake will not stop competition for the Kibra seat, despite President Uhuru Kenyatta's endorsement of McDonald Mariga.
Speaking on his Twitter handle on September 20, 2019, Ruto said the handshake was never meant to kill parties or replace competitive multi-party democracy.
He asked those speculating about the end of the handshake to give him a break and focus on other relevant issues.
"The handshake was never meant to kill parties or replace competitive multi-party democracy. Those ranting about our party leader endorsing our party candidate should give us a break. So it's right for all others to endorse theirs and wrong for Jubilee," he tweeted.
ODM team on a campaign train in Kibra constituency. Photo: Edwin Sifuna
President Uhuru Kenyatta's endorsement of Mariga came as a surprise to many, considering the former Harambee Stars player was perceived to be a Ruto project.
While Kibra constituency is predominantly ODM, the recent developments and perceived betrayal games have complicated the numerical strength of the Opposition outfit, compelling it to work extra hard to cover the required ground.
The party has, however, received support from a section of Jubilee MPs who have publicly denounced Mariga's candidature and warmed up for ODM's Imran Okoth.
Nominated MP Maina Kamanda and his Gatundu South counterpart Moses Kuria have hinted at supporting the ODM nominee at the expense of their Jubilee candidate.
