Aden Duale deserves to be William Ruto’s running mate

Seen as the anchor in the turbulent waters of the power game by old and new political parties alike, as they form alliances and hit the campaign trail for next year’s general election, is the race for the position of Deputy President. A DP earns the post by being the running mate of the victorious presidential candidate.

The position is ‘reserved’ for political bigwigs in the different political regions. To fit the bill, one must be a leader who is nationalistic and capable of uniting the nation while bringing in votes.

In the major political camps, several names have come to the fore with some expressing their interest trying to endear themselves to presidential candidates. The probables mentioned include Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Anne Waiguru, Peter Kenneth and Mwangi Kiunjuri.

The country is on the verge of a transition of government, which presents itself as an opportunity to select a running mate on the basis of gender or factoring in marginalised communities.

The various political camps already have on the negotiating table the idea of a woman running mate. Could this be an opportunity for better representation of marginalised groups through a qualified regional head pin who will drive issues that touch on all Kenyans and not just his or her own jurisdiction as a leader?

Running mate position

Aden Bare Duale, the Garissa Township MP, is arguably a formidable leader from the North who deserves the running mate position. It’s common knowledge that Mr Duale is a staunch foot soldier of Deputy President William Ruto’s. Having him picked as running mate could be the change Kenyans anticipate in the forthcoming election.

Besides many years in politics under his belt, Duale has been a voice of reason for many issues affecting Kenyans and has worked tirelessly to ensure policies and laws are aligned when it comes to implementation. His seven years as Majority Leader—the first under the current Constitution promulgated in 2010— demonstrates his dedication to leadership and firm stand on driving government agenda.

Duale has played a critical role in facilitating policy implementation. He has, for years, been consistent, which saw the processing of numerous Bills in Parliament. Known to shoot from the hip, his aggressiveness has refined him as a leader.

Duale is a staunch Ruto supporter, having been loyal since they quit the Orange Democratic Movement to form the United Republic Party. He is bold in telling off the DP’s critics. On loyalty and driving Ruto’s political agenda, Duale is a top scorer.

A nationally recognised politician, Duale emerges as a thorough leader in the political arena. He has earned respect across the political divide and been a voice of reason even amid opposition from his colleagues. He could be the springboard for representation of the marginalised.

Selina Chiteri, Nairobi