By Robert Mutasi 
Political temperatures are rapidly rising in Uasin Gishu County after Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok declared that he will once again battle Governor Jonathan Bii for the county’s top seat in next year’s General Election.
The announcement has triggered intense political debate across the county, with rival camps already mobilizing supporters in what is shaping up to be one of the most emotionally charged contests in the Rift Valley region.
Bitok revealed that he would officially launch his gubernatorial campaign early next year, setting the stage for a dramatic rematch with Bii, who defeated him during the UDA nominations in the last election before cruising to victory in President William Ruto’s political stronghold.
Speaking during a fundraiser at UG Primary School, Bitok signaled that he was ready to return to the political battlefield after months of speculation surrounding his ambitions.
The event attracted several high-profile leaders, including Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, influential presidential aide Farouk Kibet and Governor Bii.
Although Bitok arrived after Duale and Bii had already left the venue, his appearance electrified the crowd.
Supporters erupted into loud cheers as he hinted at a determined comeback bid aimed at capturing the county leadership.
“For now, I am focusing on my work as PS, but we will talk about other issues at the right time,” Bitok told the Star, carefully balancing his administrative role with his growing political momentum.
Governor Bii, however, has dismissed efforts to remove him from office, confidently insisting that his development agenda guarantees him a second term.“They should use their money wisely instead of engaging in the impossible mission of campaigning against me. As of now, this county is locked until I complete my two terms in office,” Bii said.
The governor also issued a stern warning to county employees allegedly supporting the growing “one-term” movement against his administration.
He said he would not tolerate internal sabotage from officers working under his government.The escalating political rivalry has sharply divided leaders in the county, with powerful figures openly taking sides months before campaigns officially begin.
Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has emerged as one of Bii’s strongest allies and has repeatedly defended the governor’s leadership record.“My camp with Bii consists of people known to work and deliver. Then there is the other team of those who only engage in politics that cannot help anyone,” Sudi said during a recent political gathering.
Bii has also accused several MPs from the county of undermining his leadership and refusing to recognize his authority as governor, claims that have further intensified the political friction.
Meanwhile, businessman and politician Hezekiah Bundotich Kiprop, widely known as Buzeki, is also expected to join the race.
However, political analysts believe Bitok currently poses the most formidable challenge to Bii because of his deep-rooted political networks, technocratic image and growing influence since his appointment as Education PS.
Observers say the unfolding battle could redefine political alignments in Uasin Gishu, a county considered crucial in Rift Valley politics.
With powerful allies, growing grassroots mobilization and heightened public interest, the race is already generating fierce debate in trading centers, villages and political gatherings across the county.
As the countdown to the election gathers pace, residents are now bracing for a bruising, high-stakes political showdown that could dramatically reshape the future leadership of Uasin Gishu.
George Mwangi