Kanu to shoot down draft if devolution is not total

By Philip Ruto

Kanu will not support the draft constitution in the referendum if it does not embrace full devolution.

Party National Vice-Chairman Gideon Moi said a devolved system of government would ensure marginalised regions benefit from fair distribution of national resources.

“Regions such as Coast, North Eastern, parts of Rift Valley and Eastern provinces require majimbo to also receive a share of the national resources,” he said.

Addressing a public rally in Siongiroi in Chepalungu Constituency at the weekend, Gideon said Kanu had bounced back and would soon reclaim its status as a top national party.

“We will hold national elections as Kanu soon after adoption of the new constitution so that we structure it in line with the new law,” the official said, adding nationwide rallies and membership drives would follow thereafter.

The former Baringo Central MP said Kanu was a party of peace and unity compared to other political outfits that were characterised by wrangles.

He, however, claimed some ODM luminaries were planning to interfere with the party elections by seeking to plant moles with the intention of wrecking the party from within.

Community vote

He cautioned the Kalenjin community against allowing itself to be divided and misled into supporting political parties only interested in power through the community vote.

Gideon, who was accompanied by Kanu Secretary General Nick Salat, accused Agriculture Minister William Ruto of misleading the community in the last General Election.

“Our people are now at the crossroads due to political mistakes of others and I welcome them back to Kanu, including the disgruntled ODM MPs,” he said.

Mr Salat said Kenyans needed the Provincial Administration more than ever before, especially with the increased insecurity.

“Most leaders live in urban areas where security has been enhanced, but they forget that chiefs are the source of security for the rural folks,” he said, adding the Provincial Administration should be retained in the constitution.

The former Bomet MP asked Kenyans to make own judgement on the harmonised draft and avoid relying on others’ opinion.

Source: www.standardmedia.co.ke