Josphat Nanok removed as ODM vice chairman, replaced by MP Jeremiah Lomorukai

Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok was on Thursday kicked out of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leadership where he was party vice chairman.

According to a statement from the party, Governor Nanok was booted due to his declared intent "not to be outside government".

The governor was immediately replaced by an MP from his county, Loima MP Jeremiah Lomorukai.

ODM party leader Raila Odinga shakes hands with Loima MP Jeremiah Lomorukai after he was given Governor Nanaok's vice chairman position Pulse Live Kenya

"Following numerous public pronouncements that he has quit the ODM Party, the NEC has unanimously resolved to replace Josphat Nanok as the party Vice Chairman with Loima MP Jeremiah Lomorukai. He was welcomed to the NEC by the party leader Raila Odinga," a statement from ODM read.

Nanok punished for being cosy with DP Ruto

The Orange party is seemingly on a mission to tame rebellion among its luminaries who have expressed support for Deputy President William Ruto.

During a recent three-day tour of Turkana by the DP, Governor Nanok openly declared that he would rally together a number of Rift Valley leaders to support Dr Ruto's 2022 presidency bid.

"As 14 governors from Rift Valley, we are working on a plan to fully support the Deputy President and form the next government because the whole country is focusing on Rift Valley to produce the next president.

Governor Josphat Nanok kicked out of ODM leadership after declaring support for DP Ruto's 2022 presidential bid Pulse Live Kenya

"As Turkana people, we want to be part of that government. I will not accept to be outside government again," he stated.

Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa and her Msambweni counterpart Suleiman Dori were also punished for their allegiance to DP Ruto and forced to apologize for allegedly defying the party leader's authority.