Kesses MP Rutto Backs Mandago for Future Leadership, Warns Against Intimidation in UDA

By Wasike Elvis 

Kesses Member of Parliament Hon. CPA Julius Rutto has praised Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago for what he termed exemplary leadership, saying leaders allied to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) will back him in the succession race after President William Samoei Ruto completes his term.

Speaking during a public engagement, Rutto lauded Mandago’s experience and track record, noting that he has demonstrated the capacity needed to steer the country’s leadership in the future. He said the senator’s political maturity and service to the people had earned him respect within the party and beyond.

In remarks seen as a thinly veiled jab at Kapseret MP Oscar Kipchumba Sudi, Rutto cautioned leaders against issuing threats or intimidating others in the name of politics. He warned that such conduct would not be tolerated within UDA and could cost aspirants their party nomination certificates.

“The UDA party belongs to the people, not individuals,” Rutto said, emphasizing that no one has the authority to bully others or dictate political outcomes. He stressed that, ultimately, it is the citizens who will decide who leads them through the ballot.

His comments come amid growing political maneuvering within the ruling party as leaders position themselves for future contests, with calls for unity and adherence to democratic principles increasingly taking center stage.