There was drama in Baringo after incumbent deputy governor clashed with a new person who was nominated by governor Stanley Kiptis to be his deputy ahead of the August 9 polls.
The two prominent politicians who met for the first time at a public event two weeks after governor Kiptis made the changes clashed over deputy governor’s post.
Deputy governor Jacob Chepkwony and immediate former county Assembly Clerk Richard Koech who is governor Stanley Kiptis second term preferred choice engaged in some altercation.
Chepkwony, who was the first to throw the challenge at the Kabarnet National Museum grounds in Baringo Central said his competitor was among leaders critical of their administration.
He claimed that Koech was constantly attacking the governor and his government when he was serving at the legislative wing as the Clerk.
“Our track record is there for all to see but my friend Koech could not appreciate any achievement instead he was constantly criticizing us,” said Chepkwony.
However, Chepkwony stated that he will not be campaigning for his boss and his new compatriot while seeking a second term in office.
When Koech got the opportunity to speak, he stated that he will hold the county administration to account, till his new role is endorsed by voters.
He urged the county staff not to relax in offering quality service to the people since it is their mandate to serve the electorates.
Governor Kiptis defended his choice of Koech saying such shrewd leaders are needed if the county administration was to make major strides.
“He was really putting us on our toes but we came to a consensus to work together,” the county boss explained.
Governor Kiptis will square it out with first governor Benjamin Cheboi who won as UDA nominee and Eldama Ravine MP Moses Lessonet who will be in the race as an Independent candidate.
