This archive report was first published on 6 January 2020.
BBI Report Fierce Fights: Rift Valley Politicians Take Sides ¶
As the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) report nears its implementation, Rift Valley politicians are taking sides, with some supporting the 'BBI originals' and others backing the 'BBI hijackers'. The division is evident in the region, with powerful individuals and politicians weighing in on the matter.
According to insiders, the 'BBI originals' are a group of politicians who claim to have been the driving force behind the BBI report from its inception. They argue that they have been supporting the initiative since its launch, despite initial opposition from some quarters.
The 'BBI originals' claim to have started the Kieleweke faction and the Embrace Kenya Women movement to market the BBI report, which was facing stiff resistance from those opposed to it. They now want to bring together the Kieleweke faction and the Embrace Kenya Women movement to work under the banner of the 'BBI originals', referred to as the 'BBI hijackers'.
On the other hand, the 'BBI hijackers' are a group of politicians who were initially opposed to the BBI report but have since toned down their stance. They now want the report to be taken to the masses and implemented both in parliament and via a referendum.
Some of the key politicians in the Rift Valley who are backing the 'BBI originals' include Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Alex Tolgos, Cherangany MP Joshua Kuttuny, and former Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto. They argue that the BBI report is one of the strategies being used to block Deputy President William Ruto's presidential bid in 2022.
However, the 'BBI hijackers' faction is led by Senator Gideon Moi, who is pushing for the implementation of the BBI report. They argue that the report is a crucial step towards addressing the country's burning political, economic, and social issues.
Other notable politicians in the Rift Valley who are backing the 'BBI hijackers' include Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri, Marakwet East MP Kangogo Bowen, and Caleb Kositany (Soy). They argue that the BBI report is a vital tool for promoting unity and development in the country.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen which faction will emerge victorious. However, one thing is clear: the Rift Valley politicians are taking sides, and the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the country's politics.
Published on January 6, 2020
