President Uhuru Kenyatta has moved in to end a dispute started by his Deputy William Ruto in Tharaka Nithi County last year.
In November 2016, DP Ruto sparked outrage in the county when he declared that Chuka Town was the Headquarter of Tharaka Nithi instead of Kathwana market which the locals recognise.
His remarks stirred street protests in the county with the residents vowing to change their allegiance to the Opposition.
"We are assuring Raila Odinga that Tharaka will be his stronghold in 2017 and he is welcome any day," the locals said.
However, Mr Kenyatta on Thursday overruled the DP's earlier statement and reassured the Tharaka Nithi residents that Kathwana was the County's Headquarters.
The Head of State was in the county mobilising the locals to register as voters.
Tharaka Nithi is considered a major political stronghold for the Jubilee Party.
