Murkomen Reveals How Ruto Catapulted Him Into Politics, Calls for Youth Mentorship

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has lifted the lid on how President William Ruto shaped his political journey, drawing a link between his own rise and the current crop of youthful leaders vying for office.

Speaking after the just-ended UDA nominations in Baringo County, Murkomen recalled how, 12 years ago, Ruto handed him the opportunity of a lifetime by backing his Senate bid in Elgeyo Marakwet. 

At the time, Murkomen was young, untested, and relatively unknown, yet Ruto pushed him into the limelight.

“The UDA nominations in Baringo are a reminder that leadership is a journey of ambition, resilience, and renewal. It is another opportunity to mentor visionary young leaders,” Murkomen posted on X.

The nominations saw Kiprono Chemitei clinch the party ticket after defeating Wycliffe Tobole and other hopefuls. Murkomen praised Chemitei’s win, but more strikingly, he commended the youthful aspirants who put themselves forward, saying Kenya’s political future lies in such boldness.

“These young men have a great future,” Murkomen said, pointing to their unity after the heated contest as proof of their maturity. He urged Chemitei to stay focused as he heads into the upcoming by-election and encouraged his rivals not to retreat from the political scene.

Murkomen’s reflections painted Ruto as a political godfather who has been instrumental in grooming leaders like him.