A number of the president’s handlers are pushing for Mr Maangi whom they say has always been close to the president and his Kenya Kwanza coalition even during the run-up to the last general elections, unlike Mr Ongwae who was in the Azimio Camp and campaigned vigorously against president Ruto and his coalition. Other analysts say in terms of political clout, Mr Ongwae is much better than Maangi, they add that president Ruto can use him to make political inroads in the Gusii region come 2027
President William Ruto has found himself between a hard place and a rock over the pending appointment of Chief Administrative Secretaries (CAS). Sources within Kenya Kwanza divulged to The Weekly Vision how the president and his inner circle are at crossroads over who to offer the single slot allocated to the Abagusii community.
Already, two politicians are on the shortlist and are expected to appear before the Public Service Commission for interviews. Sources say even the president is torn between immediate former Kisii Governor James Ongwae and his former deputy Joash Maangi. President Ruto is said to be more interested in offering the slot to Mr Ongwae whom he considers as more mature politically, enjoys a massive following in the region as well as professional competence having served as governor for two terms.
However, a number of the president’s handlers are pushing for Mr Maangi whom they say has always been close to the president and his Kenya Kwanza coalition even during the run-up to the last general elections, unlike Mr Ongwae who was in the Azimio Camp and campaigned vigorously against president Ruto and his coalition. Analysts say in terms of political clout, Mr Ongwae is much better than Maangi, they add that president Ruto can use him to make political inroads in the Gusii region come 2027.
Mr Ongwae’s main undoing is that he is a Jonnie come late and those opposed to him say the president should consider those who helped him win first rather than bringing on board former opposition politicians who campaigned against him. Other sources claim that Ongwae joined Kenya Kwanza simply to protect his interest and protection from possible prosecution over his alleged involvement in corruption during his tenure as governor.
And although Mr Maangi has been close allies with president Ruto, those opposed to him claim that he is not an aggressive politician who cannot be relied upon to deliver votes in the forthcoming 2027 elections. Ruto must therefore consult widely to decide on who between Ongwae and Maangi is best suited to get the CAS job. In the event Mr Ongawe is picked at the expense of Maangi, insiders say it will not go down well with Mr Maangi’s supporters but if the president sticks with his trusted ally in Maangi, then it will be a big blow to Mr Ongawe who will be forced to eat a humble pie and resign honourably from active politics.
