The standoff culminated with the Director of Communications for Ruto’s Presidential Campaign, Hussein Mohamed, holding a press briefing during the wee hours of Sunday morning, May 15, to seemingly signal a white smoke after day-long talks.
“Kenya Kwanza alliance had a series of meetings today, where several matters were discussed; development of county chatters, programs on Bottom up economic policies as well as the extensive discussions on the runningmate issue. The decision will be communicated to you today,” he assured.
Media reports had indicated that in the wee hours of Saturday morning, a total of six candidates were picked. These include Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua, Tharaka Nithi Senator Kindiki Kithure, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Speaker of the National Assembly Justin Muturi and Kandara MP Alice Wahome.
In what seemed like an easy choice for the Kenya Kwanza coalition, turned into a day long affair after the candidates were narrowed down to two; Gachagua and Kindiki.
Sources privy to the matter intimated to the media that the factors that were put into consideration for the selection of the runningmate include political experience, voting dynamics, loyalty to the Kenya Kwanza coalition as well chemistry with Ruto.
The stalemate caused a riff between the supporters of the two candidates who were adamant that their candidate ought to be given the slot.
Reports revealed that both candidates left Deputy President William Ruto’s Karen residence in a huff amid reports of disagreements on the prime position.
Insiders had intimated to kenyagist.com that DP’s Kenya Kwanza had already settled on a running mate but last-minute demands by the Mathira MP led to a further stalemate.
The insiders intimated that Gachagua made it clear last week that he would not settle for anything less despite a promise by the DP Ruto-led team to give him the Interior Ministry should they win the August 9 polls.
On the other hand, a section of Ruto’s team preferred Kindiki over his calm and collected nature and impressive resume when it comes to development and policies
The choice will be one of the defining moments of the Kenya Kwanza coalition before the deadline slated for Monday, May 16 as stipulated by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Source: KENYAGIST.COM