Deputy President William Ruto has a strong back. His allies are strongly determined to make sure that he ascends to power no matter what it may take.
In efforts to make it a reality, they are weeding out top leaders in Jubilee who are opposed to his 2022 ambition to take over the presidency of the Republic.
This massive moves may break apart what was considered once a compact thing.
The emerging split and new formation are likely to radically alter the country’s political equation.
In an unprecedented move, allies of the Deputy President are demanding answers from President Kenyatta about why there is an onslaught against the DP by his close associates.
With the future of Jubilee now doubtful, 13 affiliate parties that folded to form it have convened crisis talks next week to review the situation and map their next steps.
The 18-month-old party was unveiled with glitz and fanfare as Uhuru’s re-election vehicle, which would then be used by Ruto to run for President in 2022.
Ruto’s allies have now trained their guns on party secretary general Raphael Tuju — another Uhuru ally — whom they insist must also quit. Tuju, like his boss, has termed the frenetic 2022 campaigning premature and unnecessary.
Calling for Tuju’s resignation are Oscar Sudi (Kapseret), Nelson Koech (Belgut), Hillary Koskei (Kipkelion East) and Caleb Kositany (Soi). The lawmakers accuse Tuju of being used by “outsiders” to destabilise Jubilee from within.
“We brought Tuju into Jubilee not because he had any support but because we just wanted to create a national face for the party. He is now baggage and should be removed,” Sudi said.
This is looks like the new strategy to make sure that all opposed to Ruto’s ambition are off the lane to ensure that his transition is as smooth as possible.