It was song and dance in Kericho and Bomet counties after IEBC returning officer declared Hon Andrew Maritim of People’s Patriotic Party of Kenya’s (PPPK) associated with Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto the winner of Nyangores by-election.
Hon Maritim had garnered more than 63% of votes against JAP candidate Hon Leitich’s who only managed 30%. Governor Ruto led campaigns for the candidate with strong support from KANU and Teachers organisation KNUT. Governor Ruto joined his supporters to celebrate when news reached the town that their candidate had clinched the seat.
“We have shown the party belonging to President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto that Bomet can make independent decisions despite the fact that they brought 24 MPs led by Senator Murkomen to campaign for their candidate,” said Governor Ruto.
In neighbouring Kericho where the Senate by-election will take place next month, Kanu supporters also expressed optimism that their candidate Paul Sang will carry the day.
Governor Ruto who looked elated with his candidate’s victory, was accompanied by cheering supporters when he arrived at the counting hall with Maritim and Kuresoi MP Zakayo Cheruiyot at 8.30pm shortly before the final result was announced. The Nyangores Ward seat fell vacant following MCA Cecilia Towett’s death in a road accident in Narok County in October 2015.
The PPP-K candidate received a boost after Baringo Senator and Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi alongside Zipporah Kittony (nominated senator), Prof John Lonyangapuo (West Pokot) among other leaders supported his candidature.
According to the leaders the by-election could mark the beginning of a new political era saying transformative leadership is what the community deserves.
