By Allan Kisia

The Government has recognised the late Elijah Masinde and Masinde Muliro as national heroes.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga announced the Government will build two mausoleums for each in honour of their contribution to the birth and development of the country.

Raila made the announcement at the home of Masinde in Maeni village, Bungoma.

Speaking at the home, Raila said Kenya would not progress if it fails to recognise those who contributed to its birth.

The PM noted honouring heroes of the past would cultivate patriotism among the youth. He asked young people to be ready to make sacrifices for their country if they want the nation to remember them positively.

The PM, however, said the habit of ignoring the country’s heroes made young people believe it does not pay to do anything for the country.

The PM said time had come for young Kenyans to ask themselves what they can do for their country instead of questioning what the country had done for them.

"Freedom would not have been won if there were no people willing to take risks and make sacrifices," noted the PM.

Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi, who is also the Local Government Minister, instructed Bungoma County Council to find appropriate jobs for two of Masinde’s sons.

Find a party

Raila further said the number of politicians expressing interest in the presidency next year should not be a cause of concern for Kenyans.

"The race for the top seat is open to all Kenyans who qualify to be president. We must respect the winner because we do not want to see Kenyans take up arms against each other again," added the Premier.

His remarks come barely a day after former Cabinet minister Raphael Tuju quit his job as President Kibaki’s adviser to run for the presidency.

Tuju has since launched his presidential bid but indicated he is yet to find a party.

ODM, the premier, noted will win the elections because it has a strong team.

"I will stick with Mudavadi to the very end. There are people who want us to go separate ways but it will never happen because for ODM to win, we must stick together," he added.

Mudavadi said Saboti MP Eugene Wamalwa, who has also announced he will be going for the top seat, is in the wrong team.

Raila said the Government will make sure the next elections will be free and fair.