Sotik MP Francis Sigei has apologised to President William Ruto after appearing to tell him to serve only “one term” during a rally in Bomet County.

Sigei later clarified that he meant to say “one more term”, insisting that he was supporting Ruto’s bid for a second term.

The Sotik MP said the excitement surrounding the President’s visit caused him to use the wrong words.

“Kidogo nilikuwa na shida ambaye siwezi kuitambua hapa. But wakati niliingia, nilijazwa na furaha tele, mpaka maneno ambayo nilitamka ilikuwa tofauti,” he said.

Sigei also explained the apparent contradiction between his hand gesture and his words.

“Kwa mikono mimi naonyesha ‘tutam’, lakini kwa matamshi ilikuwa ‘one term’. I meant to say ‘one more term’,” MP Sigei stated.

He said he has consistently opposed calls for Ruto to serve only one term.

“Mimi nimekuwa mstarini mbele, hata niliwaambia watu ya kwamba sitaki kusikia mtu ambaye anasema ‘one term’,” he said.

Sigei said the day was meant to be a celebration following Ruto’s visit and the launch of development projects in the area, reaffirming Ruto’s re-election.

“Leo ilikuwa siku ya amani, hatutaki mambo madogo madogo ije kuharibu mambo ambaye ni makubwa. Sisi watu wa Sotik tunasema President William Ruto aende term ya pili,” he said.

The MP also addressed those who had celebrated his initial remarks, saying his position had not changed.

“Unajua nilisema term ya kwanza, lakini nilikuwa nasema ‘one more term’ kwa kueleza vizuri. Wale ambao walifurahia ile kitu ambayo nilitamka kwa makosa, poleni. Kwa sababu mimi niko kwa ‘two terms’ bila kupinga,” Sigei explained.