Education PS Julius Bitok has reignited political tensions in Uasin Gishu after declaring another bid for governor seat in next year’s elections.
Bitok said he would officially launch his campaign early next year in a fresh attempt to unseat Governor Jonathan Bii, who is seeking a second term.
The two were fierce rivals in the last election, where Bii defeated Bitok in the UDA nominations before going on to win the governorship in President William Ruto’s political backyard.
Bitok made the announcement during a fundraiser at UG Primary School attended by Health CS Aden Duale, President Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet and Governor Bii, among other leaders.
The PS arrived shortly after Duale and Bii had left the event but drew loud cheers when he announced his political comeback.
Political temperatures have already started rising in Uasin Gishu, with rival camps emerging ahead of the polls. Governor Bii enjoys the backing of Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, who has repeatedly defended his re-election bid.
“My camp with Bii consists of people known to work and deliver. Then there is the other team of those who only engage in politics that cannot help anyone,” Sudi said at a recent meeting.
Bii has accused some MPs in the county of undermining his leadership and refusing to recognise him as the county boss.
The governor has also dismissed efforts to unseat him, insisting that his development record guarantees him a second term.
“They should use their money wisely instead of engaging in the impossible mission of campaigning against me. As of now, this county is locked until I complete my two terms in office,” Bii said.
He further warned county staff allegedly supporting the “one-term” campaign against him, saying he would not tolerate sabotage within his administration.
Businessman and politician Hezekiah Bundotich Kiprop, popularly known as Buzeki, is also expected to join the race, although analysts believe Bitok poses the strongest challenge to Bii due to his deep political networks in the region and growing influence since his appointment as PS.
“For now, I am focusing on my work as PS, but we will talk about other issues at the right time,” Bitok told the Star.
Governor Jonathan Bi speaking in Eldoret on May 2nd 2026
