Ruto point man vows to root out Kalonzo effect in Kitui

Kitui East MP Nimrod Mbai. [File, Standard]

President William Ruto's pointman in Kitui County Nimrod Mbai has urged the Wiper party leader to shelf his 2027 presidential ambitions and instead form a winning coalition with Ruto, who will be seeking reelection.

The United Democratic Alliance allied member of Parliament says that the Kamba community risks being in opposition again should it be pursued to support Kalonzo's bid should he decide to walk alone.

The Kenya Kwanza MP said that it was a wrong assumption for Kalonzo to expect Raila Odinga's endorsement which he says was not forthcoming.

"You can't compete Raila, You can't compete Ruto. You can only join either of them but Raila's side is not an option since you've been there four times. Just join William Ruto for posterity" Mbai said.

The second-term MP said that he was working round the clock to cement Ruto's support base in Kitui and ensure he (Ruto) bagged over 50% of the total county votes.

In 2022, Ruto got 28% of the total votes cast a sure demonstration that Kalonzo's support in his Kitui backyard has been slowly diminishing.

" Raila has invested all his life in politics and there's no way he can leave the button to Kalonzo" said Mbai urging Kalonzo to instead consider retiring honorably.

Mbai who is rooting for Kitui County UDA chairmanship in forthcoming party elections urged the Kamba community to support the ruling regime for development interests.

Mbai spoke today at his rural home in Nzouni, Kitui East Constituency.