Politics
In a conspicuous display of internal divisions within Kenya Kwanza, Members of Parliament from Bomet County were notably absent from a church service attended by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The service, held at Kaplong Deliverance Church, was organized to welcome the Deputy President but highlighted the growing rift in the ruling coalition.
Despite the absence of the MPs, Bomet Governor Prof. Hillary Barchok, Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno, and seven Members of the County Assembly were present to receive Deputy President Gachagua. Governor Barchok criticized the MPs for their absence, calling it a lack of respect for the office of the Deputy President.
“Our MPs have no reason to skip the Deputy President’s function, and this is bad as we need to show respect for the office of the Deputy President,” Governor Barchok stated.
He added that all legislators had received invitations, with only Bomet Women Representative Linet Chepkorir sending an apology along with her contribution to the church construction.
Governor Barchok, who is among the Rift Valley leaders allied with the Deputy President, stressed the importance of unity and loyalty, reminding the region of Gachagua’s support during President William Ruto’s campaign.
“This is not how to appreciate someone who helped us get the government. As leaders from the region, we should watch what we do and say because we are only serving the first term, and we still need Gachagua in 2027,” he remarked.
Kapsoit MCA Paul Chirchir also criticized the Bomet leaders, suggesting they were avoiding the event due to guilt over their support for the controversial Finance Bill. “They are still guilty of voting yes for the rejected Finance Bill and could not gather the courage to attend the event,” Chirchir said.
Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno echoed these sentiments, admitting that MPs had ignored public outcry over the Finance Bill to support President Ruto’s agenda. Apologizing for their actions, Ngeno stated, “We were toeing the line and wanted to defend President Ruto’s agenda. It would have meant a vote of no confidence in the President and his government had we rejected the bill against his wish.”
Deputy President Gachagua, addressing the congregation, reassured locals of his strong relationship with President Ruto. He emphasized ongoing engagement with the President on national matters and praised Ruto for initiating dialogue with the youth.
