Kericho Governor, Erick Mutai, and his deputy Fred Kirui on Thursday, June 1, clashed at the county's Madaraka Day Celebrations after the latter accused his boss of mistreatment.
While making his remarks before inviting the governor, Kirui noted that he had been neglected and demanded respect while executing his duty as the second in command.
He added that he was irked by being sidelined despite being elected on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party ticket.
Kirui indicated that he had sacrificed much for the governor, including dropping his bid for the top seat.
"The governor is here and knows the agreement we signed. I dropped my bid to be his deputy, and as I have said, I have been using my money to fuel my cars.
"We should know that there are those who voted for me and those who voted for him. We should know that this is a coalition government. I respect the governor and I want to ask that you (governor) also respect me and all these issues will be sorted," he lamented.
However, when he took to the stage, the governor called out his deputy for making false claims at the event.
Despite acknowledging differences, Mutai noted that his deputy was enjoying better privileges than his, including having more county vehicles.
He, therefore, called on his deputy to seek him and address their wrangles without involving the public.
"You have two vehicles and an escort car. I only have one. We can increase the number to three and help your office with whatever you want.
“We can double the fuel from 150 to 300 litres. I am saying that you must not bring issues to the public for discussion. It makes us look stupid," the governor responded.
Notably, the clash between the duo came months after Gachagua brokered a truce, alongside the Members of the County Assembly (MCA).
President William Ruto tasked his deputy to mediate between the wrangling factions after warning that the row hampered development projects in the area.
"All leaders have unanimously agreed they will resolve all the stifling issues and restore peace and normalcy in Kericho," the DP announced after hosting the leaders on January 19.
Other counties facing similar challenges include Siaya, where Deputy Governor William Oduol faces impeachment over his woes with his boss, James Orengo.
