KISUMU: The National Alliance (TNA) members in Western and Nyanza regions have accused President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto of abandoning them.
Speaking in a Kisumu hotel, the members who contested for gubernatorial and parliamentary seats on TNA ticket in the 2013 General Election, said they feel aggrieved for using their resources to popularise TNA and the Jubilee coalition in the areas but they have nothing to show for their sweat.
They accuse the ruling coalition of neglecting them immediately Uhuru and Ruto assumed power, saying the two leaders are now working with those who were never party members.
"We are not amused that the President left us on our own immediately we helped him get power. When he is appointing people, we feature nowhere nor are we consulted," said Ambeyi Ligabo, who contested the Shinyalu parliamentary seat.
The former UN Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression noted that it was difficult selling the Jubilee coalition in the region that overwhelmingly voted for the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD).
"Some of us were branded traitors in our communities but we soldiered on selling Jubilee ideals by using our money. Today, the President now consults church leaders and those who did not support him on matters that affect our region," Mr Ligabo said.
Meshack Okello, who took on Ababu Namwamba for the Budalang'i parliamentary seat, said the coalition risks losing ground in the region.
"Even the agents who sacrificed their time and energy to ensure that our votes are safe have never been paid, two years down the line. We are considering quitting Jubilee for CORD," Mr Okello said.
But TNA Secretary General Onyango Oloo advised the leaders to be patient as their issues will be addressed.
"The Jubilee coalition has unveiled its National Democratic Strategic Plan to highlight positive issues of development and address issues of youths and local party leaders," Mr Onyango said.
United Republican Party Organising Secretary George Ayugi encouraged the youth in the Opposition dominated region to work with the Government for economic empowerment.
"President Kenyatta recognises that all tribes and youths in this country are important," Mr Ayugi said.
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