Irate youths, on Friday, January 7, destroyed United Democratic Alliance (UDA)-branded wheelbarrows that were erected at Chepareria Township in West Pokot County ahead of the planned tour by Deputy President William Ruto.

Ruto is expected to tour the area next week.

The youths pulled down the wheelbarrows that were erected at the township saying the region is the home ground of the newly formed Kenya Union Party KUP which is led by area Governor John Lonyangapuo.

“This is not a UDA zone. We don’t recognize their leadership, and they should respect us since we have decided to support KUP for the future,” the youths shouted as they burned the wheelbarrows.

They further warned the UDA party against re-erecting other wheelbarrows in the area henceforth.

The incident has however been condemned by UDA officials in the region who accused the youths of disrespect saying they were being used by their competitors.

“We live in a democratic country where every Kenyan has freedom of choice with regard to joining political parties. This act is very barbaric, and we demand an apology,” Ben Loyatum said.

KUP has already indicated willingness to join Azimio la Umoja movement ahead of the August general elections where it will seek to field candidates for various positions across the country.

“We are willing to work with visionary leaders who mean well for this country. I call upon Kenyans to keenly look at the ideologies behind the political parties so that they can elect the right leaders that can transform the country,” governor Lonyangapuo had previously said.

He said his party aims at strengthening devolution which he says is a key pillar in boosting the economy at the grassroots level while at the same time promoting the voices of all irrespective of their gender, race or economic status.