Mbiuki enters crowded battle for presidency

by Mutinda Mwanzia

Nithi MP Kareke Mbiuki has said he will run for president in 2012.

Mr Mbiuki launched a scathing attack on some politicians also eyeing the top seat, saying they had "historical baggage".

"Some have been implicated in financial scandals and do not merit leading the country," he said.

The Agriculture Assistant Minister said time was ripe for youthful leaders to vie for top elective seats, which have remained the preserve of older politicians.

Campaign platform

"My name will be in the presidential ballot come 2012," said Mbiuki.

He challenged the youth to use their numerical strength to vote more of their own into elective posts.

"The youth constitute the majority in our society and should take advantage of their numbers and initiate the much-desired change," said Mbiuki.

The Kanu MP said he would make public the political party that will serve as his vehicle for the top seat, adding at the moment he was quietly selling himself to Kenyans.

"I should not be judged by my youthfulness and short history as an MP, but by what I can offer in terms of leadership. The party that I will use as a platform for my campaign will be made known in due course," he said.

A number of MPs have expressed interest in 2012 presidency battle.