As political tensions between President William Ruto and his Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua escalate, one Luo man has decided to take advantage of the situation to apply for the job.
Lawyer Willis Otieno has announced his intention to succeed Gachagua.
Speaking during an interview, Otieno, who is also the deputy leader of the Safina Party, exuded confidence in garnering massive support from the Mt. Kenya region, pledging to support a presidential candidate from the province.
“In the 2022 elections, 60% of Ruto’s votes came from Mt Kenya. Currently, they are not on good terms.
“If they withdraw their support, Nyanza voters will back them and advocate for a president from the region with a deputy from Luo land. I aim to rival Rigathi Gachagua,” said Otieno.
Otieno, known for his outspoken nature, has revealed his participation in ODM meetings, where his bid for the deputy presidency received a positive reception, particularly among leaders from the Nyanza region.
He emphasised the significance of his candidacy for the interests of the Nyanza region.
Notably, the advocate highlights the apparent lack of presidential aspirations among prominent Luo leaders, except Raila Odinga who is eyeing the African Union Commission chairmanship.
He observed that the ambition among these leaders seems confined to parliamentary and gubernatorial roles, with only Embakasi East MP Babu Owino aspiring to lead Nairobi.
“No Luo leader has declared interest in the presidency apart from Raila Odinga.
“Most of them only want to become governors in their respective counties apart from Babu Owino who declared interest in becoming the Nairobi governor.
“The ODM’s main focus now is Raila’s AUC ambition,” he added.
