Kosgey and Bett have also engaged in public spats, as they try to seek support from ODM supporters. MPs from the South Rift including Assistant ministers Langat Magerer, Beatrice Kones (Bomet), and Joyce Laboso (Sotik) are among those who have supported Bett.
“We are rooting for Bett to be picked as Raila’s running mate as he has the qualities required, coupled with the fact that the South Rift has the numbers to deliver a swing vote,” Magerer said.
The tussle between the two has added fire to the rivalry between South and North Rift. Bett comes from the Kipsigis-dominated South, and Kosgey, the Nandi enclave of North Rift.
Magerer confirmed reports that chances were high some of the leaders still with Raila and Ruto may still choose to run on UDM ticket.
“It is true there is a lot of discomfort among the Kipsigis that they have not been rewarded. We are now almost decided to move on our own,” said the Kipkelion MP.
He said the talks were being held in secrecy with strategies being laid on how to fundraise, market the party, and then if need be, start talks with other groups.
“I have never undermined Kosgey whom I respect as my chairman. But it surprises me to hear him dismissing my desire to be Raila’s running mate. We have been dominated by our brothers from the North Rift for far too long and we had our space in ODM, which are in,’’ said Bett.
Bett announced at the weekend that he would be making a political statement in September. He termed as ridiculous accusations against him by Kosgey over the weekend that he was scheming to split the Kalenjin.
