Athi River business community declares support for Raila Odinga's bid

Athi-River-based business people declare their support for Azimio la Umoja presidential candidate Raila Odinga. [Peterson Githaiga, Standard]

Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga got a boost in his bid after Athi River-based business community threw their weight behind him. 

The endorsement from the populous Mavoko Constituency in Machakos County is expected to consolidate more votes across the larger Ukambani region.

Speaking during the meeting in Athi River, the business group also lauded Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for rallying the community to give investors a conducive working environment. 

In a unique show of unity, small- and large-scale traders converged at the Inter-County area and declared their unwavering support for the ODM leader. 

At the same time, they said the appointment of Kalonzo as the Chief Minister in the Azimio government is a remarkable move and a great honour to the Kamba Nation.

"We have converged here to declare our support for Mr Raila and we appeal to other business communities to follow suit since Raila has been on the forefront to protect traders in Kenya," said Pius Musembi, their spokesman. 

Besides supporting Raila's candidature, the business community also vowed to rally behind leaders working closely with Kalonzo in an effort to ensure the Wiper Party lineup wins in the coming polls. 

"We recognise and appreciate that the other candidates for various positions as worthy competitors, but today we exercise our democratic right by declaring our political stand. We will support the governor, senator, MPs, Woman Reps, and MCAs fronted by Kalonzo," said Munywoki Kimanzi.