By Willis Oketch

Agriculture Minister William Ruto now regrets Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta was not elected President in 2002.

He said were it not for the old politicians who sabotaged the quest for the young generation in 2002, the youth could have taken over the leadership of this country.

"When we wanted a generational of change in 2002, but a group of old politicians sabotaged the change. Come 2012 we will not allow it because we have the will, we have the power and I know we can do it," said Ruto.

The minister, who was addressing a poorly attended rally at Kaloleni, was echoing sentiments earlier expressed by Tourism Minister Najib Balala.

Balala had said come 2012, all old politicians should retire and leave leadership to the youth.

He told the gathering he would not support any politician in 2012. He said he would form a political party for coastal residents.

Ruto vowed to mobilise the youth to ensure old politicians are locked out of leadership.

"There is no going back; we have to bring change in this country. I am calling upon the youth to join hands and liberate the country," said Ruto.

The minister insisted the Government is mishandling the issue of Mau squatters. He claimed squatters in Coast have been facing similar problems.

Balala asked Ruto to take charge of Rift Valley and ensure nobody penetrates the region as he takes charge of the Coast.

"After 2012 we will go round the table to negotiate what we want," Balala told Ruto.

The Mvita MP said he was not worried about being sacked as a minister.

"I am not worried because I am still young. I can do other things if I am sacked," said Balala.

Assistant Minister for Lands Gonzi Rai urged upcountry residents to support Balala in 2012.

Others who attended the meeting were MPs Kazungu Kambi, Aden Duale, Ekwe Ethuro and Moses Lessonet.