Governor Arati claims there were plans to poison him

Addressing a gathering in Kisii on Saturday, Arati said he learnt of plans to end his life through poisoning, plans he says were hatched by elderly members of the Gusii community. 

"What happened in South Mugirango is akin to what the Al-Shabaab did in Garissa University. People using guns to end others' lives. This time round we will not allow it to happen, we will ask our people to get hold of anyone misusing a gun, even if it will cost some of us," Arati said. 

He went on: "It's very unfortunate that people as old as 60 years could sit and decide that the solution to my leadership in Kisii county is by poisoning me. That someone that age could suggest to have me poisoned so that they can have their way. Why don't you want me to live and at least get to your age? Why?"

The governor also defended his move to mobilise bodaboda riders in Kisii County, saying it is all meant to empower them. He castigated those opposed to the move, saying they were threatened by an empowered bodaboda association. 

Arati warned that if pushed to the wall, he will be will be like the proverbial cat that has been cornered and forced to unleash its claws to save itself. 

"If you corner a cat in a box and try to attack it, definitely it will defend itself and turn against you with its craws. I will be like that cat if this does not stop," Arati added. 

The governor and South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro have been at loggerheads lately, leading to a violent confrontation between their supporters on January 8.  Gunshots were fired and several people injured during the clash. 

Later, a meeting called by Education CS Ezekiel Machogu to find a truce between Arati and Osoro was skipped by the governor.