There has been talk that Uasin Gishu County Governor Jackson Mandago could work with Chama Cha Mashinani (CCM) Party leader Isaac Ruto in 2022. Mandago is serving his last term in office and has remained silent on the ongoing succession debate.
Mandago has also not hinted on his next political destination and the person he would prefer as his successor in 2022. With the 2022 succession taking shape, Mandago will be the man to watch out in Rift Valley and Uasin Gishu.
He is expected to chart the political direction the county will take. Mandago does not enjoy cordial political relationship with the Deputy President William Ruto.
With his political influence and popularity, Mandago could be a big headcahe to DP Ruto unless he (Ruto) brings him to his side. To be guaranteed of massive support in his Uasin Gishu home-turf, DP Ruto will have no option but to work with Mandago.
For DP Ruto to stamp his political authority, he must bring Mandago and other rebels to his side.
The recent move by businessman Zedekiah Bundotich alias Buzeki to ditch Ruto’s camp complicates matters for the Deputy President in Rift Valley. It is a matter of wait and see on the political direction Mandago will take in the upcoming 2022 general election.