Moi dismisses plans to form new parties

By KEVIN TUNOI and TITUS TOO

Former President Moi has dismissed plans by some politicians to form new parties ahead of the 2012 General Election.

Mr Moi said leaders should quit propagating what he termed as empty political rhetoric and settle down to improve the living standards of citizens.

"It has been politics on daily basis and Kenyans are getting confused. You should address issues that will improve the general living standards of the people," said Moi.

He said the formation of new parties would only fan tribalism instead of uniting Kenyans and hit out at leaders he said engaged in politics round the clock at the expense of development.

Former President Moi cuts a cake to commemorate the official opening of AIC Mosoriot Church in Nandi County on Sunday. He advised leaders to tone down politics and instead improve living standards of the people. [PHOTO: DAVID KANDA/STANDARD]

Moi said political fights in the name of democracy had led to disunity and tribalism, which is affecting the general economic growth.

"Some are fighting for democracy thinking it will unite them. They want to equate themselves with Australia, United States and other western economies not knowing such states have come too far," said Moi.

Many shortcomings

He said even the new Constitution, which is much talked about, is promoting tribalism.

"The new Constitution has very many short comings which will divide Kenyans rather than bring development," Moi said.

He was speaking at AIC Mosoriot Church on Sunday when he presided over its official opening accompanied by Kanu leaders led by former Nominated MP Ezekiel Barng’etuny.

The former Head of State said leaders should play their roles well by being visionary and respectful in view of the changing environment.

Be organised

"In order to succeed, leaders should be organised and respectful. They should not be disorderly like the wildebeests crossing over the Mara and tumbling," he said.

Moi further challenged farmers to try out new crops instead of depending on maize farming.

"Do not only rely on maize farming, try out some other crops that will benefit you rather than maize farming, which has no profit yet is expensive," he said.

Moi also asked MPs and CDF committees to utilise the kitty well to foster development.