Laboso's endorsement for governor elicits heated debate

Sotik MP Joyce Laboso. [FILE]

Bomet, Kenya: Some assembly members have vehemently opposed the endorsement of Sotik MP Joyce Laboso as the next governor.

Led by Joyce Korir (Singorwet), Julius Korir (Kembu), Robert Serbai (Embobos) and Evelyne Lagat (Chesoen), they said the move by some MPs to approve Laboso was immature and undemocratic.

"It is too early to talk about the 2017 polls. Moreover, it is the people of Bomet who can make such an important decision. As far as I am concerned, that was a one-man’s opinion," Ms Korir told The Standard.

At the weekend, Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui, who is allied to Deputy President William Ruto, told residents that he has been holding consultative meetings with a view to front a person to dethrone the current governor, Isaac Ruto.

Tonui further claimed Laboso is the county's best bet because of her experience and prudent management of CDF funds.

NOT DECLARED

"We cannot support a governor who mismanages county resources and does not want to work with other leaders," he said.

As the debate continues to rage on, sources close to Ms Laboso say she has not yet declared her interest in the position.

A Facebook forum, The Kipsigis Renaissance Forum, was yesterday on fire as residents from the region argued over Tonui's assertions, with many saying the final decision would be made by them and not "some first-time MPs in political rallies".

Former Konoin MP and 2013 gubernatorial candidate Julius Kones said Jubilee Alliance Party (JAP), like any other political party, has strong and competitive mechanisms through which to get the right candidate for political positions.

"Endorsements for political seats are archaic and have no place in our current democracy. Bomet should be given a chance to choose the right leadership.

"I am however, not surprised as such statements are common from first-time legislators. It is a juvenile kind of politicking," he said.

Kones said he will be vying for the position in 2017 under JAP.