We will still be your running mates come 2017, deputy governors declare

Kisumu deputy governor Ruth Odinga (Right) with her counterparts Joash Maangi of Kisii (left) and Gakure Monyo (Muranga) during a tour at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo Siaya County on August 8 2015. PHOTO/COLLINS ODUOR/STANDARD]

Deputy Governors have threatened to challenge governors at the ballot if they decide to pick new running mates come 2017.

Deputy governors Gakure Monyo (Murang'a), Joash Maangi (Kisii ), Ruth Odinga (Kisumu) and Ouma Onyango (Siaya) stressed the need for county chiefs to work closely with their deputies as they were elected on a joint ticket in the last polls.

Ms Odinga said she would ensure Kisumu Governor Jack Ranguma manages the county well.

"I do not have to play friendly with the governor when residents are complaining of non-performance. When you see Mr Maangi here, you have seen all deputy governors. He is the chairman of the Deputy Governors' Forum (DGF)," she said.

Mr Monyo said he has the mandate of Murang'a voters to work with Governor Mwangi wa Iria as his deputy. He, however, raised concerns on the sour relationship between some governors and their deputies. He accused some governors of viewing their deputies as underdogs.

"Being deputy governors does not mean that someone should take us for their juniors. We are potential candidates to replace them when the right time comes," he said.

Mr Maangi said they are watching to see which governors will pick new running-mates in 2017.

"Let no one be cheated that they will pick other running mates. They should be prepared to be challenged by us on the ballot should they take that route. You can't tell me that you want to go for a second term when indeed I have been your deputy, telling me to run for one term only," said Maangi.

He was quick to point out that his relationship with Kisii Governor James Ongwae is cordial. Maangi said DGF met the Council of Governors and they agreed on the need for change in the way they relate.

"It's true we have had very sharp differences in certain counties like Machakos and Embu. We are hoping the meeting we held will yield fruit, " Maangi said.

avoid sycophancy

He added: "We are, however, warning those governors who are imagining that we can't run against them in 2017, that they will be shocked should there be an attempt to drop a deputy governor for a new running mate."

Ruth reminded members of county assembly(MCAs) to stick to their oversight role and avoid sycophancy.

"MCAs must not be seen to be looking for tenders. It's sad that the current MCAs are a let down. They have completely ignored their watchdog role. I therefore urge the media to closely monitor our MCAs," she said.

They spoke during a church service in honour of Mr Onyango's late parents at Nango village, Siaya County.