Wisley Rotich and Grace Cheserek clashed at an empowerment forum in Kapyego.
Governor Wisley Rotich interrupted his deputy Grace Cheserek as she criticised service delivery, triggering a public confrontation.
Rotich and Cheserek clashed publicly at an empowerment forum in Kapyego, Elgeyo Marakwet, on November 8. A dispute over the deputy governor’s speaking time escalated into a confrontation involving the governor’s security team.
Governor Wisley Rotich interrupted Deputy Governor Grace Cheserek as she addressed residents and told her to sit down. However, Cheserek refused to stop, insisting that she had a right to finish her remarks.
Rotich and Cheserek dispute turns heated
Rotich accused his deputy of childish conduct and complained that she had spoken extensively without contributing money. In response, Cheserek challenged his authority to cut short her address and insisted she would continue speaking.
During her remarks, Cheserek criticised the governor’s leadership, accusing his administration of neglecting essential services. She singled out healthcare and education as areas where she said residents needed better support.
She also accused Rotich of using handouts to attract public support rather than addressing residents’ problems through service delivery. As she approached the end of her speech, the confrontation intensified.
Videos circulating online showed Cheserek attempting to grab the governor’s microphone before a security officer intervened and escorted her away. Meanwhile, some residents shouted support for Rotich and dismissed the deputy governor’s remarks.
Earlier disagreement at Tot event
The Kapyego confrontation followed another public disagreement between the two county leaders during an August event. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen attended that gathering, which marked the launch of a translated Marakwet Bible in Tot, Marakwet East.
At the August 1 ceremony, Rotich introduced members of his county executive and other officials. He then invited Kericho Governor Eric Mutai to speak without acknowledging Cheserek.
In response, Cheserek rose from her seat, took the microphone and demanded recognition. She accused Rotich of demeaning her, openly challenging the governor before those attending the ceremony.
