Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka was subjected to a humiliating running mate interview, according to Deputy President William Ruto.
The second in charge, speaking on Wednesday, stressed that every leader is deserving of respect.
Ruto went on to say that Kenyans must band together to end the political culture of deception, which is what some politicians are notorious for.
“Though we are competitors, to subject HE Kalonzo to some humiliating ‘interview’ is impunity. We must unite to eliminate the culture of political deceit, the hallmark of some politicians. Whatever the circumstances every leader deserves some dignity and respect. Heshima si utumwa,” he tweeted.
This comes as allies in Kalonzo Musyoka’s camp are encouraging him not to show up for the Raila running mate interview.
They claim he has been vice president for five years and has twice deputized for Raila. They insist that attending the interview is a form of disrespect.
Daniel Maanzo, a Makueni MP, said the Wiper boss must not be humiliated in front of a panel, warning that if their candidate does not get the ticket, Raila risks losing the Ukambani vote.
“The choice is his (Raila’s). If he wants to be the President, let him look for Kalonzo. I won’t advise my party leader to appear before any vetting panel so as to be told to say his names as they appear in the ID. That is rubbish,” Maanzo said.
Kalonzo has also protested why he has to be subjected to an exam to be Raila’s deputy.
“This issue is beginning to weigh heavily on me. I find it almost unacceptable discussing it. …. If this issue is solved earlier, it will give some of us the impetus to campaign,” Kalonzo said last week.
By snubbing the vetting panel, the Wiper boss risks being left out of Raila’s pick for the running mate, a development likely to escalate tension in the coalition.
