Prof James ole Kiyiapi, who hails from Kilgoris in Transmara District, has not visited the region, leaving many wondering what has become of his State House bid.
He has not even had a homecoming party, which is common for high profile personalities who have quit senior positions in the Government and the private sector to seek elective posts.
His supporters and handlers say he is still planning to visit Narok County, adding that he is still the best bet to succeed President Kibaki.
“We know people are wondering where he is and if he has abandoned his quest for State House. Plans are underway for him to hit the ground,” say Leswam Tampushi, who worked with him when he was Environment PS.
Tampushi, who is a Narok South National Environment Management Authority official, says Kenya’s politics is tribal and there is no way the community will abandon one of its own and vote for an outsider.
His sentiments are supported by a former Narok County Council vice chairman, Rimoine Togom who argues that for too long the community has been voting for candidates from other regions and it is time they voted for one of their own.
Prof Kiyiapi, he says, is the community’s son and asks the community politicians, professionals and opinion leaders to rally behind him.
“For too long we have been kingmakers. Time has come for us to stand behind one of our own for the top seat,” says Togom, who adds that despite making kings, the community has all along been neglected.
