Kalenjin Myoot Council of Elders over the weekend held a traditional prayer ceremony and offered their blessings to KANU party leader Gideon Moi in Sugoi, the rural home of Deputy President Dr William Ruto.
They also pledged to closely work together with Moi ahead of 2022 polls.
The elders spoke at the home of Sammy Kogo, an Uasin Gishu-based businessman and close ally of the Moi family where they had invited the Baringo senator to offer their condolences following the death of his elder brother Jonathan Toroitich last month.
Peter Lugano, a retired Chief from Likuyani constituency, urged the Baringo senator to follow in the footsteps of former President Daniel Moi, who united the country during the 24 years he served as President.“Your father led a united and peaceful country.
“We are here to ask you to take our sympathies and condolences to Mzee Moi following the passing on of Jonathan but we must also speak about your intentions to occupy the top seat. We will walk hand in hand with you in that journey,” said Mr Lugano.
Uasin Gishu elder Ernest Kirui said Gideon had demonstrated ability to unite Kenya and deserves support when he announces his bid for the presidency.
Kirui said elders from the region have critically weighed the abilities of the leaders seeking to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta and have confidence in Gideon.“Don’t worry about those who are already insulting you even before the campaign period begins.
“We as elders know who the right leaders are and we will make it known when the right time comes,” Kirui told grassroots leaders.
The leaders pledged to help build political networks for the Kanu chairman in Rift Valley and Western regions ahead of the campaigns.
Mr Kogo, a renowned businessman in Nairobi and Eldoret, also pledged to rally the business community behind the Baringo senator.
“We have invited a few opinion leaders with experience in the political dynamics of our area. We are doing this in the interest and for the benefit of our people,” said Mr Kogo.