Coronation of New Kalenjin kingpin to succeed President Ruto sees Senator, MP clash
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno have disagreed over Kipsigis community kingpin.
This comes a day after Ngeno was appointed as an elder of the Kipsigis group, which many political observers believe has repercussions for President William Ruto’s succession in the Rift Valley area.
On Monday, Cheruiyot accused the MP of pushing himself as the community’s representative for selfish reasons.
He alleged that Ngeno has abandoned the community’s established leadership institutions and is purporting to represent the people’s voice.
“We don’t know where he came from or who endorsed him and which elders have endorsed him,” Cheruiyot said.
This follows Ngeno’s recent coronation as the Kalenjin kingpin, who will replace President Ruto if he wins a second term.
The elders decided to install the MP due to his outstanding leadership and hard work.
Political analyst Kipkemoi Barsumei, who was also a former Mayor of the old Bomet Municipal Council, claimed the installation was political and not for the community’s benefit since Ruto is still the spokesman.
“There is a procedure for installation as Kipsigis elders, Ngeno is playing politics and upping his stakes in the South Rift region. There is nothing much in the coronation,” Barsumei said.
However, Ngeno maintained that community unity is vital, and that they must speak with one voice.
“My coronation was not political but to lead the community to advocate and negotiate on their behalf because of my leadership qualities spanning 15 years and track record after the elders realised that I have done a lot for the community,” he said.
The disagreement between the MP and Emurua Dikiir MCAs led in a violent altercation between supporters during the funeral of Kalenjin comedian Nicholas Rotich alias “Chongin” last Friday at Kapsasian, Transmara East.
This occurred when Ngeno failed to acknowledge the MCAs present, resulting in the conflict.
In Other News: Mudavadi Hints At Folding His ANC To Join William Ruto’s UDA Party
Coronation of New Kalenjin kingpin to succeed President Ruto sees Senator, MP clash
