North Rift politicians who have been criticising Deputy President William Ruto are fighting for survival against UDA candidates in the region.
Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter, his Moiben counterpart Silas Tiren and Cherangany MP Joshua Kutuny are battling UDA candidates in their constituencies.
Keter and Tiren are defending their seats as independent candidates, while Kutuny is seeking reelection through Jubilee.
Tiren, who is also chairperson of the Parliamentary Agricultural Committee, enjoys wide support from farmers who credit him for fighting for their rights.
"I am seeking reelection based on the work we have done and farmers, along with all other residents of Moiben, are clear on my record," he said.
Tiren faces a strong challenge from UDA candidate Prof Phyllis Bartoo, a newcomer to politics.
Bartoo is an aggressive grassroots mobiliser with a humble approach to politics.
In Nandi Hills, Keter won the UDA primaries but was denied the ticket by the party which accused him of interfering with the party polls.
The UDA ticket was given to Keter's rival Benard Kitur, leading to a tight battle for the seat.
Both are conducting door-to-door campaigns, but analysts say the seat is among those likely to be won by an independent candidate.
"Keter is a performer and we were surprised that UDA denied him the party ticket because of issues we didn't understand," resident Paul Bett said.
Keter said he is determined to win the seat.
In Trans Nzoia, Kutuny is also putting up a spirited fight to represent Cherangany residents in the National Assembly for a third term.
His main challenger is former MP Wesley Korir, who is seeking a comeback through UDA.
Kutuny is considered a performer and a good grassroots mobiliser and he has camped in the constituency to campaign.
The three were among DP Ruto's heaviest critics but because of UDA dominance they have avoided direct attacks on the DP who enjoys support in the region.
"At the end of the day, voters will decide based on the kind of leadership I have offered as an MP," Kutuny said.
Residents praise him for expanding schools, among other community initiatives, during the time he has served as an MP.
Others seen as rebels and fighting for survival include Kesses MP Dr Swarrup Mishra and Uasin Gishu independent governor candidate Bundotich Kiprop Buzeki.
Edited by A.N
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