“We should understand the circumstances in which the statement was made. He was eulogising Saitoti who had made a similar statement,” said Linturi.
He added: “In my view, that does not mean he (Uhuru) is not running for president. We are preparing for his candidature as he is still the people’s choice.”
Mwea MP Peter Gitau said Uhuru’s statement should not be interpreted to mean that he was pulling out of the presidential race.
Massive support
“We know Uhuru as an astute politician who is respected across the political divide and what we know is that he enjoys massive support across the country,” said Gitau. He, however, said should Uhuru choose to shelve his ambition for the sake of the country, his decision should be respected.
Assistant Minister Kareke Mbiuki, also an ally of Uhuru, dismissed the speculation that the DPM might not be vying for president.
“Uhuru is firmly in the race to State House on The National Alliance ticket. What he meant is, if by any chance his candidature is a threat to national unity, he shall step down and support any other like-minded candidate,” explained Mbiuki.
He added: “To this end therefore, I wish to confirm that Uhuru is still firmly in the presidential race.”
Uhuru: ‘I want to state here that I’m prepared to give up my own ambition in order to take this country where Hon Saitoti wanted’
Kioni: ‘I believe Uhuru is one honest politician in this country. He is consistent in what he does and his statement does not surprise me’
