Don’t attend running mate interview: DP Ruto advises Kalonzo
By: Rading Biko
Posted on Wednesday, May 4, 2022
The highly controversial hunt for a suitable running mate by the popular presidential candidates Raila and Ruto keeps raising questions as to who will secure a chance on either side.
Earlier the Azimio La Umoja presidential candidate had selected a seven-member panel that would assist in vetting potential candidates for the running mate seat alongside the former prime minister.
The various alternatives for the Azimio La Umoja vice presidency are Mr Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc Kenya’s Martha Karua, former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, and Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui and his Mombasa counterpart Hassan Joho, are some of the people seen as possible nominees.
Ms Meyo, part of the panel despite the confusion urges that the biggest qualification for a running mate will be a Kenyan of high standing and credibility who will both deliver for Kenyans and help the President achieve his manifesto items.
Speaking on Wednesday, the DP said that subjecting the Wiper Leader Kalonzo should not be humiliated in a running mate interview for more impunity.
The interviews will kick off amid protests from members of the Wiper party who want Mr Musyoka not to appear before the panel, saying members of the team are not his equals and that Mr Odinga should personally take charge of the process.
Ruto added that there is a need for Kenyans to unite to ensure the elimination of the culture of deceit in politics which is an aspect most politicians are known for.
Raising this matters as Mr Musyoka laid out his resolution that he won't attend the interviews nor will he apply for the position stating he believes he is the most eligible candidate.
In a statement on Sunday, the panel said the criteria to follow in the interviews include fidelity to the Constitution, personal integrity in public and private life, objectivity and impartiality in decision-making and in ensuring that decisions are not influenced by nepotism, favouritism, other improper motives or corrupt practices.
The person must also show selfless service based solely on the public trust, demonstrated by honesty in the execution of public duties and the declaration of any personal interest that may conflict with public duties.
This comes amidst reports of unease in Kalonzo’s camp with his allies witnessed offering sentiments in opposition to the idea of interviewing their boss as they advise him to further not attend the whole program.
Arguing that the former vice president had deputized Raila twice hence issuing him an interview to gauge his motive, work ethic and dedication to working for the people is a sign of insult and disrespect to the Wiper Party Leader.
The presidential candidates now have until May 16 to submit their names alongside those of their preferred running mates. The DP issuing his opinion on the matter tweeted saying, "Though we are competitors, to subject HE Kalonzo to some humiliating 'interview' is impunity. We must unite to eliminate the culture of political deceit, the hallmark of some politicians. Whatever the circumstances every leader deserves some dignity and respect. Heshima si utumwa."
Written by Kwabe Victor
