Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui hits out at Governor Isaac Ruto over Jubilee Alliance Party

Governor Isaac Ruto joins a traditional dance troupe during 52nd Madaraka Day celebrations. His attack on the Jubilee Alliance Party has been criticised by Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui. [PHOTO: GILBERT KIMUTAISTANDARD]

Governor Isaac Ruto's constant opposition to the newly formed Jubilee Alliance Party (JAP) has been labelled a political ploy.

Speaking after the Madaraka Day celebrations held at Bomet Green stadium, Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui said Ruto is attacking JAP in hopes of securing direct nomination come 2017.

"We know he is voicing his opposition towards formation of JAP as a bargaining chip for him to be nominated but this will not happen," the MP said.

Mr Tonui said the newly formed party is a democratic outfit which will not tolerate favouritism adding that all members will be treated equally.

NO FAVORS

"Anybody hoping for favours or promises of direct nomination in JAP in exchange for their support is dreaming and they need to wake up and smell the coffee. JAP is democratic and all members will be treated equally in the spirit of democracy," he said.

The vocal legislator was reacting to statements the governor made during his Madaraka Day address where he said he would rather remain without a party than join the much publicised Jubilee Alliance Party.

"As much as some leaders continue popularizing JAP nobody should expect me to throw my weight behind it. After all, it is not a must that I belong to a particular party so that I get elected," Ruto said.

Tonui however, told the governor to prepare for tough times come the next general election if he does not support JAP unconditionally.

"It will not be business as usual and he should prepare to bow out of the political arena for defying the tide.

SERVE LOCALS

JAP is a tsunami that will sweep anyone that tries to stand in its way. Governor Ruto should read the writing on the wall," he said.

The MP also took issue with the governor's criticism of the Government over the poor state of roads in Bomet.

"If he thinks the Government is responsible for the county's poor state of roads, he should tell us what he has been doing with the Sh500 million he has been setting aside, for the last two years, meant to open up access roads," Tonui said.

He challenged the governor to "show responsibility in utilising funds that have been released to serve locals".