Editor's Review

Governor Lee Kinyanjui: Rift Valley shall soldier on to ensure the BBI is successful. There is no middle ground; you either support or reject it. You should not be inconsistent as a national leader. You're either with us or not

A section of leaders from the Rift Valley region has accused Deputy President William Ruto of trying to delay the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) by issuing new proposals months before the referendum.

The DP has on several occasions called for additional amendments to the BBI noting that he is for consensus rather than a contested referendum.

In an interview on Thursday, the DP hinted that he may keep off if his recommendations are not incorporated in the BBI document.

Following his recent pronouncements, a section of Rift Valley leaders feel that he is delaying the process and want him to openly state whether he is for or against the BBI.

“Rift Valley shall soldier on to ensure the BBI is successful. There is no middle ground; you either support or reject it. You should not be inconsistent as a national leader. You're either with us or not,” Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui stated. 

On his part, former Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto noted that the DP’s proposal to have a referendum in 2022 is impossible.

“Holding two events at the same time will be hectic for voters who may not understand the processes… This is the only process that will ensure politicians do not endanger the lives of citizens. It will usher in a new period of tolerance as its provisions will allow all parties to run the government,” he said.


Former Nairobi County Assembly speaker Alex Ole Magelo who is among leaders spearheading BBI in Maasai land urged the DP to lead the anti-BBI team.

“The DP and his brigade are playing 2022 politics. They should oppose the document in its totality,” he said.

Other leaders from the region including Narok Governor Samuel Tunai urged locals to support the referendum.