Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot has publicly refuted assertions that the South Rift region is shifting allegiance away from President William Ruto’s camp. Addressing a gathering in Chepalungu, Bomet County on August 1, 2026, Cheruiyot welcomed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to the area but cautioned that residents would not follow him politically.

He emphasized the region’s tradition of hospitality, stating that visitors are always welcomed regardless of their political affiliations. However, Cheruiyot challenged Gachagua’s expectations of garnering support, citing the 2017 General Election where despite opposition rallies, Jubilee secured an overwhelming victory in Bomet.

Political Allegiances and Past Elections

  • Cheruiyot recalled that former President Uhuru Kenyatta won 99% of votes in Bomet during the 2017 polls despite significant opposition presence.
  • He accused Gachagua of misinterpreting the political mood in the South Rift and dismissed suggestions that residents would shift allegiance to the opposition.

Questions on Gachagua’s Political Credibility

  • The UDA senator questioned Gachagua’s legitimacy following his impeachment as deputy president, noting that even leadership roles in local committees were denied to him.
  • Cheruiyot condemned inflammatory remarks reportedly made by Gachagua about "killing the snake and its children," interpreting this as an insult to leaders allied with President Ruto.

Support Dynamics in 2022 Elections

Cheruiyot highlighted that South Rift voters supported both President Ruto and Gachagua in the 2022 elections, arguing that any political fallout experienced by Gachagua should not implicate the region’s electorate.

Gachagua’s Rift Valley Political Tour

Former Deputy President Gachagua recently revealed plans to attend the Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20, 2026, and undertake political tours across several counties in the Rift Valley and North Eastern regions. Despite reporting intimidation from senior government officials, including threats in his home region, Gachagua expressed determination to visit areas considered strongholds of President Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.