Ford Kenya party leader Moses Wetangula’s move to join Deputy President William Ruto’s camp was unprecedented as he is known for castigating the former over various issues.

Wetangula, has in the past, ruled out working with DP Ruto who will be contesting for the presidency on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party ticket.

Wetangula on Supporting Ruto

In July 2018, the Bungoma Senator noted that his party would be in government in 2022 but not by supporting the DP.

“How can we join his (Ruto) camp when we already have ours?” he wondered.

Months later, in October 2018, Wetangula denied claims that he plans to support DP Ruto’s presidential bid arguing that he would be on the ballot.

“We cannot be supporting other regions for president as if we from Western do not have people who can lead the country,” he said. 

Wetangula on bottom-up economic model

Wetangula was also part of a section of political leaders who dismissed DP Ruto’s bottom-up economic model.

“I feel amused sometimes when I hear people talk ablution economics and every time you listen to them you get to the realization that they know nothing about economics.

“Some are even mistaking distribution of money as an economic model. Others are mistaking a policy called Buy Kenya, Build Kenya as a model. It is very laughable,” he said in reference to the economic model.

Praising Ruto

Slowly by slowly, Wetangula started leaning towards DP Ruto’s camp and launched attacks on ODM leader Raila Odinga while heaping praises on the DP.

The Senator called out the ODM leader over his political approaches while trying to access the Western Region on a vote hunting mission.

Wetangula argued that it was shameful for the former Prime Minister to use politicians and individuals with no influence to access the region.

At the same time, he praised DP Ruto for his strategies noting that he understands the right channels to use to win the hearts of the people of Western region.

“I have heard him asking the people; do you wish your leaders to work with me? And of course, the crowd has resoundingly told him they would want to see that,” he remarked.

Ford Kenya, ANC and UDA

Speaking during a rally in Nakuru, Wetangula explained that Ford Kenya joined forces with UDA and ANC to ensure full participation of all Kenyans.

“Kenya will be reborn. We’re not here for greed or to favour our side. We’ll bring a government that will favour and prioritize the youth to empower them,” Wetangula said. 

Speaking during a political rally in Kakamega, Wetangula explained that he endorsed DP Ruto’s presidency after being misused, mistreated and neglected by Raila despite supporting him.

“As a community, we have been played, laughed at and wronged by many people. The people that we have helped are the ones who are now using us. It’s time for Mulembe people to reclaim their respect. It’s time for us not to work for our neighbours but for ourselves. We want to be treated with respect.

“Since the handshake, which Luhya has he (Raila) picked and given a Cabinet post? Which Luhya has he picked as an ambassador? Which road project has he launched here? Has he built a port here like in Kisumu?” the Bungoma Senator posed.

Wetangula noted that he and Mudavadi made a decision to work with the DP and will not look back.