Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua has surprised Kenyans after he declared that he will defend his parliamentary seat.
His announcement comes at a time when he is expected to be deputy president William Ruo's running mate in the August 9, polls.
In a Facebook statement, Gachagua said he had paid the required amount needed for him to take part in the UDA party nomination exercise scheduled for April.
He also announced he had officially ditched the Jubilee party for UDA over links with the Azimio La Umoja led by ODM leader Raila Odinga.
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"I have officially left my former party Jubilee and joined the Party of the future UDA. I have paid the official fee to defend the Mathira Parliamentary seat on a UDA ticket," he said.
And added: "I invite all those who wish to unseat me to join UDA before tomorrow's deadline and face me in the Party nominations as they have no chance of being in any Party associated with Azimio".
Gachagua is part of many Mt Kenya leaders who was eyeing the deputy presidency slot.
The first-term MP has been billed as a potential running mate fo the DP and his move to pay the nomination fee raises eyebrows whether he has bolted out of the race.
Other leaders who are deemed as Ruto's potential running mate are Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, Kandara's Alice Wahome and Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki.
