Accept and move on, President Uhuru urges poll losers

President Uhuru Kenyatta photo:courtesy

President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto wound up their three-day campaign in Nakuru by asking losers in the Jubilee Party primaries to concede defeat.

In Gilgil, the fallout in Jubilee played out openly as supporters of Gilgil MP Nderitu Mathenge, who was defeated by nominated Senator Martha Wangari, protested against the outcome of the vote.

Carrying placards and shouting slogans, the supporters told Jubilee leaders that they should be allowed to vote for whomever they want.

At one time, Mr Ruto had a hard time trying to control Mr Mathenge's supporters.

"Wangwana nawauliza muweke haya makaratasi chini na shida yenu itatuliwa na rais atakapokuwa akiongea (I plead that you put aside those papers and the President will address your problems in his speech)," he said, but his entreaties were ignored.

Ruto cut short his speech and invited the President, who lashed out at the area MP and his supporters, accusing them of lack of respect and indiscipline.

NEVER CONTENTED

An agitated Uhuru told off the shouting supporters, saying the outcome of the nominations reflected the will of the people. He endorsed Ms Wangari.

"Some MPs like Nelson Gaichuhie and Joseph Kiuna accepted that they were defeated and have agreed to support the party and I'm wondering why others cannot do that," he said.

However, things were smooth in Naivasha where the duo were received by hundreds of jubilant supporters. Uhuru criticised NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga, saying he was never contented and was keen to antagonise the government of the day.

"During the coalition government, Raila could not work with former President Kibaki due to his demands and we shall not give him room to derail our projects," he said. On free education, the President said his administration had set aside Sh3 billion to expand secondary schools "so that come January all students will get free education".

The Head of State met with over 1,000 representatives from the public transport sector from across the country at Nakuru State Lodge. He allayed fears that SGR would drive them out of business.

"SGR is not here to kill your business. Passengers using the train will require the matatus and boda bodas to commute to and from the stations, which is a plus for you," said Uhuru.

Ruto urged Kenyans to uphold nationhood and patriotism, saying they were key to the country's stability.

Addressing a congregation at Kingdom Seekers Fellowship Church in Nakuru town, the President urged religious leaders to pray for the country.

"My hope is that the church, all men and women of goodwill will be on their knees praying that God give us continued peace and unity for Kenya to achieve her destiny," he said.

Uhuru said he was ready to do everything in his power to ensure that peace prevails before, during and after the August 8 General Election.

He challenged those vying for various political seats to preach peace.

"When leaders come seeking votes from you, don't allow them to incite you to start fighting one another. Reject such politicians who neither mean well for you or for the country," he said.

"Don't allow yourselves to be used as weapons to fight their battles."

Kenyatta recognised the work of Kingdom Seekers Fellowship church under the leadership of Apostle John William Kimani in preaching peace across the country.