Escalating differences between President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto were witnessed yesterday during the 7th annual devolution conference in Makueni County, after governors allied to the latter appeared to have given the event a wide berth.

The event that was graced by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was attended by a host of Cabinet Secretaries led by Fred Matiang’i (Interior), Joe Mucheru (ICT), Eugene Wamalwa (Defence) and Monica Juma (Energy).

None of the Ruto allied governors attended the event but only the ones gravitating towards the Handshake political wing led by Council of Governors chairman and Embu Governor Martin Wambora.

Other governors present were Ukambani bosses, Alfred Mutua, Charity Ngilu, and host Kivutha Kibwana who have announced their unequivocal support for Raila’s presidential bid.

Also in attendance were Ann Kananu (Nairobi), James Ongwae (Kisii), Ndiritu Muriithi ( Laikipia), James Nyoro ( Kiambu), Francis Kimemia (Nyandarua), Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu) and Wilber Otichillo (Vihiga).
The only perceived Ruto ardent supporter CS Devolution Charles Keter attended the ceremony although his body language painted a picture of ‘a lonely man’.

Two days ago, Keter singly attended an intergovernmental budget and economic council meeting at Ruto’s Karen residence. The forum was snubbed by the rest of his Cabinet colleagues although they had a formal invitation from Ruto’s office.

Yesterday, Keter was on the periphery as Matiang’i and other Cabinet colleagues ran the show.

For instance, while Matiang’i planted a tree on behalf of the President, surrounded by top dignitaries, Keter was nowhere to be seen.

Back at the exhibition, Keter went straight to the Devolution ministry stand as other dignitaries walked side by side with Raila.

Ruto, who was hosted by Nandi County chief Stephen Sang at Kapsabet, is expected to address delegates at the conference tomorrow. He is likely to share a forum with former vice president Kalonzo Musyoka who is also set to address delegates.