Mathira Member of Parliament, Rigathi Gachagua, says the Kenya Kwanza coalition's formula of choosing the running mate is a reserve of their presidential aspirant, William Samoei Ruto.
Speaking on Tuesday, April 26, the Legislator noted that the coalition had resolved to leave the task in the hands of Deputy President and they will all support his pick.
According to Gachagua, the DP is ready to announce his running mate within the timelines provided for by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
"We have given him the free hand to pick his running mate as opposed to the other side whereby the talks are polarising."
"Our presidential candidate is ready (to announce) because he is not held by any external forces," stated Gachagua.
He also castigated their rivals, the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party, for appointing a committee to choose the best candidate to deputize ODM leader, Raila Odinga.
"We in Kenya Kwanza have no problem with whatever deadline of choosing a presidential running mate, we are ready. Ruto doesn't need a committee to help him choose his running mate. Azimio needs more time because people have taken hard stances."
IEBC chairperson, Wafula Chebukati, has, however, agreed to extend the deadline to May 16, to allow affiliate political parties to consult.
The discussions of running mate have been a head-scratcher for both sides of the divide as politicians have kept their cards close to their chest.
In the Ruto's camp, among those being fronted for the running mate position include Musalia Mudavadi of Amani National Congress (ANC), Rigathi Gachagua, and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru.
On the other hand, Martha Karua of Narc Kenya and Kalonzo Musyoka of Wiper are seen as the front runners to deputise Raila.
Raila is also facing a challenge on how he will reward loyalists as most of them including MPs Sabina Chege and Dennis Waweru are not defending their seats.
