Kiyiapi receives home support

By Leonard Korir

The people of Kilgoris, the home turf of immediate Education PS James ole Kiyiapi, have pledged to back his presidential bid.

There was anxiety in the area as residents stayed glued to the television and all ears on the radio awaiting the ‘big announcement’.

Local leaders led by County Council of Trans Mara chairman Daniel ole Seitai praised Kiyiapi for the move, saying he has set a good example and a good show in compliance with the new Constitution.

The leaders said they were fully behind him and would support his race to State House, adding he had proved a dedicated servant who can steer this country to greater heights.

Addressing the Press in Kilgoris, Seitai said with his diligent performance in the various ministries he had served in, Kiyiapi was in no doubt capable of holding the highest office in the country.

He said as a local leader, Kiyiapi just like other politicians from other parts of the country, deserves home support. "There is no reason why we cannot give moral support to one of our own who has already proven to be productive in serving all Kenyans," said Seitai.

However, there were those who held divergent opinions concerning Kiyiapi’s presidential ambition. They felt he had bitten more than he could chew. Youth leader Elias ole Musunkui challenged Kiyiapi to reconsider his decision and instead seek one of the county elective positions.

"We don’t deny Kiyiapi is a dedicated and hardworking leader but we find the presidential post too big for him," said Musunkui.

He said due to his experience, he would make a very good governor for Narok County. Kiyiapi’s entry into the presidential race raises the number of candidates from the Maasai community to two, the other being Internal Security minister George Saitoti.