“I am already working for the people to deliver on our current mandate and when the time comes the same people will tell us the direction to take,” Rotich said. He confirmed he will be in the race.
Rotich differed politically with Governor Tolgos and the DG has been charting his own political course. He was initially considered a greenhorn in local politics but his rise in the recent days has also excited the race for governors.
Tolgos is allied to Baringo Senator Gideon Moi and next week the DG will host DP Ruto at an event where local politics will dominate.
Ruto’s UDA party is expected to dominate the region and most aspirants have indicated they will be seeking the party’s nomination.
Analysts say the main race will be between Boinnet and Rotich, should the former IG join the race.
Other aspirants include principal of the Eldoret National Polytechnic Josphat Sawe. He is a respected educationist promising to bring on board professional leadership.
Also in the race is former MP for Keiyo South Jackson Kiptanui and Dr Loice Kipkorir, popularly known locally as Jemencho Kabon.
She has declared her interest to replace Governor Tolgos who will exit at the end of his two terms.
Dr Kipkorir, who is an environmentalist, is lecturing at Kabiaga University. She has a long history of teaching and community work in Elgeyo Marakwet.
“Having grown up in the region, I know what kind of leadership is needed to uplift our people to the next level where they will not suffer from poverty and other challenges," she said.
She will face off with many other aspirants.
Kipkorir says as a woman she would offer better leadership that cares about the lives of residents.
Tolgos has not indicated his preference among the aspirants and he is expected to have minimal influence in deciding his successor.
Senator Kipchumba Murkomen, who is an influential member of DP Ruto’s team, has taken a low profile. He is expected to seek reelection as a senator.
(Edited by V. Graham)
