DP Ruto reaches out to Bomet critic Isaac Ruto

Deputy President William Ruto, Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto (left) and former MP Joshua Kuttuny (centre) at a requiem mass for the father of Mr Julius Kones, former Konoin lawmaker. PHOTO | DPPS

What you need to know:

  • The DP came face to face with the governor after eight months of a public spat.

  • Instead of fighting, said the DP, the two leaders should unite the Kalenjin and deal with issues soberly.

  • Governor Ruto has repeatedly indicated he would ditch Jubilee by next year’s General Election.

Deputy President William Ruto on Tuesday extended an olive branch to his outspoken critic in the Rift Valley region, Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto.

The DP also asked leaders from the county, among them National Assembly Deputy Speaker Joyce Laboso, Senator Wilfred Lessan and local MPs to iron out their political differences and join hands in development projects.

The DP came face to face with the governor after eight months of a public spat, with each leader being seen to chart a different political path only three years after vigorously campaigning for Jubilee in 2013.

“My dear friend and brother, Isaac, let’s talk and work together. The differences are unnecessary. Let us bring the people together,” DP Ruto said.

Instead of fighting, said the DP, the two leaders should unite the Kalenjin and deal with issues soberly.

“The governor, the senator and the MPs have spoken and given an indication they are ready to embrace dialogue on issues they have differed on. It is important for you (MPs) to note that there are issues you can tackle with the governor without bringing them to me or to the attention of the public,” said the DP.

 The DP said he would support the leaders. “As leaders, let’s learn to be humble, respect each other and be patient and tolerant when we disagree on issues,” he said.

Governor Ruto told the DP that he was not opposed to his leadership and was ready to work with him.

“I wish to state here that at no time have I said I am not ready to work with you. It is only that I always speak my mind and champion the rights of the people at the grassroots,” Governor Ruto said.

“We can sort out the issues on our own if we are honest with each other. The people are not happy about the existing differences,” said the governor. “As leaders, we should not lie to the people.”

Governor Ruto has repeatedly indicated he would ditch Jubilee by next year’s General Election.