Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) leader Raila Odinga has called on Deputy President (DP) William Ruto to support him in the upcoming General Election.
Speaking during a fundraiser at Sotik in Bomet County, Odinga pleaded with the people of Rift Valley to back his presidential bid in the next election promising to reciprocate by supporting Ruto in 2022.
“Since Mr Ruto will be vying as Kenyatta’s running mate, I want to plead with the Kalenjin to stand with me so that in 2022 we can talk over Ruto’s presidential bid,” he said.
The Opposition leader urged the DP to come to his side declaring that there was no ill will between them but all he needed was to talk to him.
“We can talk so that I can support the Deputy President in 2022 which he has declared to run for presidency,” he affirmed.
According to Odinga, he was only interested in ruling for one term after which he would fully support Mr Ruto.
“There will not be a contest between Raila and Ruto and, therefore, as people of Rift Valley stand with me in 2017 as it happened in 2007 so that we have full stakes of the government and we can talk with Ruto for my backing in 2022, which he has declared interest,” he declared.
During the event, the former Prime Minister was accompanied by MPs Irshad Sumra, Jakoyo Midiwo and Opiyo Wandayi who reiterated the call for DP Ruto to support Mr Odinga.
“Ruto should learn from the experience of former Prime Minister and Kalonzo who despite declaring their support for leaders from Mt Kenya, their favours were not returned,” asserted Midiwo.
The ceremony was, however, skipped by area leaders including Governor Isaac Rutto who has previously been a critic of the Jubilee government.
