Eldoret Polytechnic principal Josphat Sawe has joined the race for governor of Elgeyo Marakwet.
Governor Alex Tolgos is ending his second term next year.
Sawe has been an educationist for more than 30 years, managing various institutions. He has a wealth of experience in management and other advantages that put him in a strong position.
He holds a master's degree in Educational Administration, Leadership and Management and is credited with transforming the Eldoret National Polytechnic from a regional institution to a national one.
It has more than 40,000 students following expansion he initiated.
“I have the necessary experience, ability and wisdom to get our county to the next level, hence, my decision to vie for the governorship," Sawe said.
Elgeyo Marakwet is mainly inhabited by the Marakwet and Keiyo communities. Sawe has the advantage of coming from Marakwet West but his parental roots are in the Rimoi area of Keiyo North. So far he is the only candidate from Marakwet.
Sawe has been laying the ground for his run and county analysts say his entry will alter the the political equation because he is considered more mature than some other candidates.
Others he will compete with include former MP for Keiyo South Jackson Kiptanui, Deputy Governor Wesley Rotich and university don Dr Joyce Chemenjo.
Cabinet Assistant Secretary Joseph Bionet, who is also a former Police IG, is expected to announce his entry into the race by the end of this month.
“Currently I am still serving as CAS and listening to what the people are saying. Soon we will decide at the right time," Boinnet said.
Sawe is a highly respected administrator in the region and he says has a clear plan on how he will drive development in Elgeyo Marakwet.
The county receives one of the smallest budgets of about Sh3.5 billion. But Sawe says with clear planning and working with partners the county has great potential to produce wealth for its people and create many jobs for youth.
Most of the aspirants in the region are expected to seek UDA nominations for flagbearer through primaries. The county is considered one of DP William Ruto’s political strongholds where he enjoys near fanatical support.
All the aspirants are also allies of the DP but he has promised he will not favour anyone during the UDA primaries and that residents will be free to elect leaders of their choice.
(Edited by V. Graham)
