Deputy President William Ruto became the subject of discussion on Friday when he attended the funeral service of former Belgut legislator Eric Keter at Sosiot Play Ground in Belgut constituency, Kericho county.
Focus shifted from the matter of the day to the DP's 2022 presidency ambition changing the sombre mood into what may have easily been confused for a political rally.
Jubilee Members of Parliament present at the service rose to speak and each endorsed Mr Ruto as the poised successor of President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria led the charge, encouraging DP Ruto to work without worries over the Jubilee succession plan.
[caption caption="DP Ruto during the funeral service for the Late former MP Eric Keter"]
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"Forget the small talks suggesting otherwise over who should succeed the president. The entire central region is fully behind you," Kuria advised the DP.
Mr Kuria further advised Ruto to ensure he supports President Kenyatta in leaving an enviable legacy saying that it will go a long way in boosting his candidature.
Murang'a Woman Representative Sabina Chege echoed Moses Kuria's sentiments promising DP Ruto that she would be at the forefront in campaigning for him in 2022.
The DP avoided politics when he rose to speak. He instead urged the locals to subscribe to the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to cushion them from heavy medical bills.
He conveyed that the national government has already allocated Sh100 Million toward the expansion and equipping of Sosiot Health Centre for the locals to enjoy the services.
In honour of the departed, Mr Ruto promised Sh10 Million to Starehe Boys and Girls’ Secondary Schools in the constituency that were started by the late MP.
On his Twitter handle, the deputy president stated: "We eulogise Erick Keter, a diligent and passionate leader who invested time, energy to the service of his people and contributed immensely to the education sector. He was a spirited grassroots mobiliser and an excellent lawmaker. Rest In Peace."
The late Keter passed away at the Nairobi Hospital of a heart attack.
[caption caption="DP Ruto during the Late Eric Keter's Funeral Service "]
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The DP had earlier attended the memorial service for the Late Kitui West MP Francis Nyenze that was held at the Christ is the Answer Ministries (CITAM) assembly at Karen, where he sat and shared light moments with Opposition leader Moses Wetangula.
