Stop blaming handshake for your political woes, DP told

ODM lawmakers led by Ruaraka's TJ Kajwang' at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Seme, Kisumu, on September 15, 2015. [Denish Ochieng,Standard]

Eleven ODM MPs have told Deputy President William Ruto to stop linking his political tribulations to the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Opposition leader Raila Odinga.

Nyando MP Jared Okello sparked the debate when he claimed the DP was busy engaging in premature campaigns ahead of 2022, and blaming handshake proponents whenever they criticise him.

"We want to tell Ruto that we are focused on bigger things and do not need his job. So let him stop crying wolf. Handshake team is not an impediment to his work," said Mr Okello.

Speaking during a mass at Reru Sacred Hearts Catholic Church in Seme Constituency, the legislators vowed to remain steadfast in support of President Kenyatta.

The MPs present included Tom Kajwang (Ruaraka), Martin Owino (Ndhiwa), Dr James Nyikal (Seme), Tom Odege (Nyatike) and Peter Masara (Suna West).

Leaders present

Others were Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Rosa Buyu (Kisumu County), Eve Obara (Kasipul-Kabondo), Jackline Oduol (Nominated) and Peter Kaluma (Homa Bay Town).

"We want to re-assure President Uhuru Kenyatta that we are tired of opposition and we are firmly behind him and in Government to stay," said Mr Kajwang.

He was cheered as he pronounced that the Luo community cannot stay in opposition for life.

"There is time for everything as is proclaimed in Ecclesiastical teachings in the Bible. Its our time to be in the Government as others plan to exit," Kajwang claimed

The ODM MPs defended their relationship with the Jubilee administration, saying it was meant for the common good of all Kenyans.

Mr Masara claimed that Raila had saved this country from sliding into anarchy and asked Kenyans to embrace the handshake.