by Francis Ngige and Boniface Gikandi

Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka has defended himself against accusations of early campaigns and announced formation of a council "to unite the country".

Mr Kalonzo said some politicians had resorted to peddling falsehoods against him to tarnish his image.

"I have been accused on being on a campaign trail but contrary to that I am trying to unite Kenyans," he said.

At the weekend, Water Minister Charity Ngilu and Assistant Minister Peter Kenneth accused the VP of campaigning for 2012 polls prematurely.

Kalonzo said President Kibaki would head the National Unity Council formed by PNU to promote unity.

He said the council comprised Deputy PM Uhuru Kenyatta, Internal Security Minister George Saitoti and himself.

Those present were Environment Minister John Michuki, MPs Johnstone Muthama, Clement Wambugu, Maina Kamau, Elias Mbau, Ephraim Maina, Peter Mwathi, Clement Waibara and the host Muturi Mwangi.

Speaking in Kiharu at the weekend, the MPs told off Ngilu for criticising the Vice-President.

Separately, Cabinet Minister Noah Wekesa also supported Kalonzo.

"We formed PNU barely two months to the General Election and we never had time to put our campaigns and structures in order. If we can start now as the VP has started, the better," said Wekesa.