Politicians Kipchumba Murkomen and Silas Tiren clashed on Sunday after the latter said he will work with Jubilee leaders only if farmers' problems are solved
The two engaged in an exchange before DP William Ruto, during the homecoming ceremony for Trade PS Chris Kiptoo
in Moiben, Uasin Gishu county.
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Murkomen, who is Elgeyo Marakwet Senator, accused Tiren of working with "outsiders and political brokers to undermine Ruto".
Tiren was among leaders who accompanied Opposition leader Raila Odinga to former President Daniel arap Moi's home last week.
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Murkomen further said the MP had been lecturing the DP instead of resolving the farmers' issues.
Ainabkoi MP William Chepkut, Trade Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo and Deputy President William Ruto during Kiptoo's homecoming ceremony at Chepkosom Primary School in Moiben, Uasin Gishu County, April 15, 2018. /MATHEWS NDANYI
The Senate Majority leader said Tiren had no authority to lecture Ruto
on maize matters yet he was to address the challenges.
“Tiren, you are supposed to be part of the solution. You don’t have to come here crying all over just like the ordinary people you are supposed to help,” he said and warned him against being used by brokers.
But the MP said he will not give up the fight for the farmers' rights.
“Even if I was denied the seat (parliamentary Agriculture committee Chairman), I still have the mouth to speak out. We can work together but farmers' issues must be dealt with first," he said.
He said he visited Moi with Raila to see how he was doing as he had been hospitalised in Israel.
“I was there with Gideon and he has sent his greetings to you," he told the Senator.
Murkomen accused Gideon, who is Moi's son and Baringo Senator of
blocking some Rift Valley leaders from visiting the retired President.
He claimed only those loyal to the Kanu Chairman are allowed to see Moi.
"Tiren was able to visit Moi because he was with Raila," he said.
“It has been very difficult for us to see Moi because Gideon has been allowing only those loyal to him to see the old man. You will now help us, Tiren. When you meet Gideon, tell him we are also looking for an appointment to see Moi."
Ruto ruled out the possibility of constitutional changes to create the position of a powerful Prime Minister elected through Parliament.
He said the unity deal between Raila and President Uhuru Kenyatta should not be misunderstood to mean the creation of positions for the rich and privileged.