North Rift divided over Ruto’s new political party

Barely a week to the International Criminal Court ruling on the fate of suspects accused of fomenting post-election violence, the unveiling of a new political party by Eldoret North MP William Ruto has created more confusion in the North Rift region.

Both supporters and opponents of Mr Ruto agree it is too early to determine the political landscape. But leaders allied to the MP are optimistic the change from UDM to United Republican Party (URP) will not be a problem since many in the electorate have been waiting for guidance on what political direction to take.

Keiyo South MP Jonathan Kiptanui said it would take just a month or two to popularise the new party in the area.

“We have ample time before elections to give direction. What is important now is the unity of the people to speak with one voice, and the advantage now is that we have a vehicle that will take us as a bloc through to the next elections.

Baringo Central MP Sammy Mwaita, a close ally of Mr Ruto, expressed optimism that URP would clinch the presidency.

“We will now embark on nationwide rallies to market the party and roll out registration of new members,” he said.

But according to East African Community minister Musa Sirma, Mr Ruto and his allies are headed for political oblivion with the community out of government.

“Let us not rush our people to destinations that we do not know. It is not yet too late for Ruto to learn. Instead of forming a political party, he should have taken his time and probably consider coming back home to ODM,” said Mr Sirma.

Ms Kevinnah Loyatum, who is seeking the women’s seat for West Pokot County, says Mr Ruto no longer enjoys the support in the 2010 referendum on the new Constitution.

Baringo county Kanu youth leader Nicholas Koros said Rift Valley is set to benefit from the new move as it will have a bargaining platform when they enter into an alliance with another political party.

Political activist and Narc-Kenya coordinator in the North Rift Kipkorir Menjoh said what Ruto has done since the departure of former President Moi is to try and create a “father-figure” kind of politics where people in the region have to wait to be given political direction.