Handshakes not meant for leadership posts: DP Ruto

What you need to know:

  • Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen downplayed the Moi-Odinga meeting.

Deputy President William Ruto on Sunday said the government’s decision to work with the opposition was not aimed at creating leadership positions.

During the homecoming party for International Trade Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo at Chepkosom Primary School in Uasin Gishu County, Mr Ruto said the ongoing unity talks should benefit citizens not leaders.

“Even if we amend the Constitution, it should not be for creation of positions like an executive prime minister,” he said.

“Kenyans have the capacity to elect their leaders, not a few of us sitting in corners over a cup of tea and doing the selection.”

The remarks come after a meeting between National Super Alliance leader Raila Odinga and retired President Daniel arap Moi in Kabarak on Thursday last week.

QUALITY LEADERSHIP
Mr Odinga held a similar meeting with President Uhuru Kenyatta at Harambee House last month.

Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen downplayed the Moi-Odinga meeting.

“There is no problem with people shaking hands. This should however not be used to play politics. We should depoliticise the country until 2022,” the Elgeyo-Marakwet senator said.

He added that the era of Kenyans voting for political dynasties is over.

“We want to change Kenya’s politics. Kenyans should vote for somebody whose father they have never known,” he said.