Governor Jonathan Bii caused a surprise when he nominated youthful MCA Evans Kapkea as his deputy replacing engineer John Barorot who resigned.
Bii went for the young MCA, 34, who represents Tembelio ward in the Uasin Gishu county assembly.
Tembelio's name has been forwarded to the county assembly for vetting. Governor Bii sought to tap into the youthful population in the region while picking him.
Governor Bii had consulted widely with young people at various forums, promising to give them more opportunities in his administration.
“We value our youth and moving forward I will seriously consider them to take up key positions in our country”, Bii said.
Kapkea, who holds a bachelor's degree in Analytical Chemistry from Moi University, currently serves as chairman of the Trade committee at the county assembly.
MCAs celebrated the nomination, describing it as a plus for the governor.
“I was surprised because I never expected such an appointment to come my way. I thank the governor for the potential he has seen in me and other youth in our county”, Kapkea said.
His colleagues described him as a humble and friendly person who can work closely with other leaders.
However, Kapkea is not a political heavyweight in the region. Pundits said the county boss may have wanted someone he would easily work with and mentor instead of seasoned politicians.
Governor Bii overlooked seasoned politicians and professionals in the region he had initially considered for the position. Former Moiben MP Sila Tiren comprised the list of possible nominees.
Others on the list included former MCA Pius Kigen, Engineer Anthony Chelimo and current Trade executive Martha Cheruto.
Sources said there was extensive lobbying and political push and pull for the seat soon after Barorot resigned.
Kapkea is from the same Keiyo sub-tribe of the Kalenjin community as Barorot and comes from the Moiben sub-county like the former DG.
Going into the next elections observers will wait to see how Kapkea’s appointment will play out for Governor Bii and if he will eventually retain the MCAs as a running mate in the re-election bid.
