November 27, 2024

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DP retreats to Rift Valley backyard as he seeks to stamp authority

Approximately 300 plot owners in Chelimo are facing the risk of losing their properties either to the state or self-proclaimed squatters if the current Kericho government officials fail to take action.

Approximately 300 plot owners in Chelimo are facing the risk of losing their properties either to the state or self-proclaimed squatters if the current Kericho government officials fail to take action.

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Deputy President (DP)William Ruto will today retreat to his Rift Valley backyard as he seeks to stamp authority there as the region’s political supremo.

The DP who is drumming up support for the newly formed United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is touring the region at a time pressure is piling on Jubilee Party, on which he was elected into office over unfulfilled projects.

 Ruto who addressed a gathering in Narok County yesterday evening waded into the emotive Mau Forest restoration issue saying he was not responsible in settling farmers in the water tower.

There was tension two years ago after Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko evicted settlers from the forest, most of them members of Ruto’s Kalenjin community particularly Kipsigis. “All the people have been removed from the forest.

I was not involved in settling them at the forest but I want to assure that nobody will go back to the forest.

 The forest will be fenced like we have done in Aberdares to prevent further intrusion. We don’t want anybody to come here and divide us on the basis of Mau. The Mau question is closed,” Ruto said. The DP accused his opponents of a plot to change the Constitution in order create jobs for themselves.

 “My opponents’ priorities are misguided,” he said. Soy MP Caleb Kositany said the DP will tomorrow be at Chebolol in Uasin-Gishu County, where he will preside over a funds drive for 36 churches.

 “The DP will on Thursday be in Nakuru before heading to Nyandarua on Friday. We call on residents to turn up in large numbers and welcome the DP as he comes home,” said Kositany.