It is a fact that the North Rift region is predominantly a Deputy President William Ruto’s political base.
However, ODM leader Raila Odinga also enjoys sizeable support, largely because the region is cosmopolitan.
Ahead of the August 2022 poll, there have been heightened political movements in the region, as aspirants seek to align themselves to the winning team.
We take a look at politicians who have openly declared their support for Raila Odinga’s Azimio la Umoja Movement in the North Rift.
Uasin Gishu
Recently, Senator Prof Margaret Kamar led other politicians in joining Azimio, in what many have termed as political suicide.
It followed an earlier announcement by Langas MCA Francis Muya to support Raila’s presidential bid.
Here is the full list;
- Prof Margaret Kamar (Senator Uasin Gishu)
- Francis Muya (Langas MCA)
- Ramadhan Ali (Kiplombe MCA)
- Samson Wanjama Mugo (Aspirant Turbo MP)
Elgeyo Marakwet
- Eng. Alex Tolgos (Governor Elgeyo Marakwet)
- David Kimaiyo (Former Ispector General of Police)
- Linah Jebii Kilimo (Former MP Marakwet West)
Nandi
- Dr Sally Kosgey (former MP Aldai)
- Amb. Stephen Tarus
Trans Nzoia
Most of the politicians in Azimio la Umoja are courtesy of the Democratic Alliance Party (DAP-Kenya) led by Devolution CS Eugine Wamalwa
- Caleb Amisi (MP Saboti)
- Janet Nangabo (Woman Rep)
- George Natembeya (Governor aspirant)
West Pokot
- Prof. John Lonyangapuo (Governor and party leader Kenya Union Party – KUP)
- David Pkosing (MP Pokot South)
Turkana
- John Munyes (CS Petroleum)
- Jeremiah Lomorukai (MP Loima)
As time ticks towards the August 9, 2022 poll, there are more political re-alignments expected to happen not only in the North Rift but countrywide.
The question of whether the North Rift support for Azimio la Umoja will turn into votes for Raila Odinga is a matter of wait and see.