Book on 2002 intrigues to be launched today

By ISAAC ONGIRI

A new book documenting on how the Opposition toiled to create an election machine that drove Kanu out of power will be launched today.

The book Dawn of a Rainbow –The untold intrigues of Kenya’s First Coalition Government is a revelation of a near 25 month long struggle to bring the opposition figures together in what finally grew into an opposition coalition that brought President Kibaki to power.

Former Rangwe MP, Shem Ochuodho

Published in Kibaki’s final year in office the memoir by former Rangwe MP, Shem Ochuodho is a reflection of behind the scenes cynicism, back stabbing, betrayal, corruption and hypocrisy of key players in the coalition before and after its formation.

The book defines the character of Kenyan political figures who played prominent roles in the initial and final attempts to unite the opposition.

Other than President Kibaki,the book is detailed on key personalities like Prime Minister Raila Odinga, former Vice President the late Wamalwa Kijana, Water Minister Charity Ngilu, former Ford People leader Simon Nyachae, former Roads Minister the late Kipkalia Kones and Wildlife and Forestry Minister Dr Noah Wekesa among others.

Chronology of events

"A lot happened behind the scenes which Kenyans would never have known. I was an insider, so I reveal a lot for the benefit of all Kenyans," Dr Ochuodho said.

Several Cabinet ministers and dignitaries are expected at the launch this evening at the Serena Hotel.

It further gives a chronology of events describing the ever-crumbling efforts to consolidate the opposition. Those who were skeptical to the end emerged the final benefactors after Narc finally formed the coalition government.

The former legislator was known for having initiated talks to bring together opposition figures ahead of the 2002 elections.

The former MP was appointed the Managing Director of the lucrative Kenya Pipeline Corporation to reward his efforts .

The renowned Information Technology wizard was later to be found useful by President Paul Kagame’s government who offered him a job as a government advisor on matters ICT.

He has now crossed over to Juba where President Salva Kiir has hired him as senior advisor in the Ministry of Telecommunication and Postal Services.