Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has fired back at Kericho Governor Eric Mutai for mocking his presidential bid ahead of the next elections, saying it was his constitutional right to seek the country's top job.
Salasya said his recent visit to Kericho was not intended to sabotage anyone, but was just part of his preparations for the 2027 presidential race.
His visit sparked a reaction from Governor Mutai. In the video, Mutai is seen speaking to Kericho residents, saying that he would be better placed to vie for the presidency than Salaysa.
"Can Peter Salasya be president? Really? I’d rather run myself. When a mad person comes here, let them say what they want and move on,” Mutai said.
Salasya, who has been touring various parts of the country to gather support for his presidential bid, visited Kericho on May 30.
In his statement on Thursday, June 5, the MP expressed gratitude to the people of Kericho for their warm welcome, saying he was astonished by the love and support the youths showed him.
“People of Kericho love me so much. I didn’t come to decampaign you, but to popularise my 2027 presidential bid. I was shocked by the love and support from the youth,” Salaysa said.
Salasya addressed the governor's remarks on June 5, defending his leadership and development record in his county.
“To the governor of Kericho, Mutai, it’s unfortunate for you to call me ‘bangi’. What I have achieved in Mumias East through Constituency Development Fund cannot be matched or compared with what you’ve done in Kericho,” Salasya said.
Mutai, however, stated that Kericho is a peaceful county and that everyone is free to speak whenever they visit.
“Let’s not insult anyone. We are peaceful people. We give space for everybody to say what they want. But the people of Kericho, we know where we are going and where we came from,” Mutai said.
Salasya, on April 28, declared his 2027 presidential bid, joining the list of aspirants who have already announced their bids for the country's top seat.
