Rift leaders welcome document despite initial resistance

The launch of the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) report yesterday at the Bomas of Kenya has elicited varied reactions from Rift Valley leaders.

A section of leaders who spoke to The Standard yesterday described the BBI document as ‘good’, and said they would  go through it and make a decision with the electorate.

Keiyo South MP Daniel Rono and his Aldai counterpart Cornely Serem said the content of the document could still be worked on. “The report appears good and acceptable. Unless there is something hidden, the document is sober and the task-force worked on it well,” said Mr Rono. He was initially a strong critic of BBI.

Trans Nzoia Woman Rep Janet Nangabo commended the proposal on gender representation.

“We are asking people in the region to soberly read and understand the report and make independent decision,” said Ms Nangabo. Former Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto said the report must strengthen devolution by ensuring counties were sufficiently funded so that Kenyans across the country can feel equal in terms of development.

“We need to go through the report and understand the proposals before we say what we want,” he said.

Former minister for East African and Regional Cooperation Musa Sirma said Rift Valley residents will embrace the document if it will ensure peaceful co-existence.

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa explained their decision to back the proposals was because the created PM post was just like a Cabinet secretary slot that will not take away the powers of the president.

Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen said he was initially skeptical of the report over claims that it would have political ramifications. [Titus Too, Osinde Obare, Julius Chepkwony, Kennedy Gachuhi and Moses Nyamori]