Kipsigis elders say that warring Isaac Ruto and William Ruto have ignored their summonses

KERICHO: Myoot Kipsigis Council of Elders has blamed the escalating political feud among a section of Rift Valley leaders on their failure to heed elders' counsel.

Council Chairman Paul Leleito said elders had met on numerous occasions since last November and summoned all the leaders engaged in political wrangles for mediation and reconciliation but none turned up.

"As Rift Valley leaders continue to fight among themselves, many Kenyans are increasingly asking where and what the Kalenjin community elders are doing about it. We have summoned them severally but none has accepted our invitations," he said.

Deputy President William Ruto and Council of Governors (CoG) Chairman Isaac Ruto, who have been at loggerheads are some of the leaders summoned by the elders.

ANOTHER BID

Speaking to the Press in Kericho town, the council's chairman reminded the leaders that the only way the community can prosper is when elders' counsel is sought and respected.

Mr Leleito however, said all hope was not lost, and they would soon launch another bid to bring the leaders together for reconciliation.

"We love all our leaders. There are plans to properly summon them to a meeting, which will encompass all the key players in the region. We hope this time they will accept and honour the invitation," he said.

Leleito spoke as 45 Members of Kericho County Assembly pledged allegiance to the DP.

Assembly Leader of Majority Daniel Rono said the clique of politicians led by CoG chairman and Senator Stephen Ntutu (Narok) "were headed nowhere" politically.

Governor Ruto is seen to draw his support from Kericho Governor Paul Chepkwony, Kanu Secretary General Nick Salat and President Kenyatta's political advisor Joshua Kuttuny.