Kalonzo urges politicians to shun insults

By Steve Mkawale

Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has urged fellow politicians to shun political insults and challenged them to commit themselves in peace building ahead of the coming General Elections.

Kalonzo who joined Christians from various churches in national prayers at Uhuru Park in Nairobi on Saturday, said leaders should guard against careless utterances that might cause hatred among their supporters.

"This is not the time for political insults, we must exercise caution and restrain in our campaigns to avoid setting up our supporters against each other," said the VP.

Kalonzo said all those seeking the presidency have a responsibility to ensure that Kenyans go to the elections in a peaceful atmosphere.

"Although we have differed over issues like the election date, we need to work towards a peaceful election and commit ourselves to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections," he said.

The VP said the interests of the country overrides those of individuals and called for sober and mature campaigns ahead of the polls.

Kalonzo's call for peace and restraint came a few days after Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi urged supporters of his political rival-prime Minister Raila Odinga to stop insults.

Supporters of the two leaders-who fell out after Mudavadi quit ODM- have been engaging in a smear media campaign that had caused anxiety among Kenyans.

On Saturday, Kalonzo called for a ceasefire in the smear campaigns saying political insults might plunge the country in chaos.

He took issue with the media for perpetrating the insults saying the media had a responsibility just like other organs of the state to promote peace and tranquility ahead of the upcoming polls.

He castigated a section of the media that had portrayed him as a quitter saying he is not leaving the political scene anytime soon.

"As long as God gives me breathe, I am not going to leave the political scene anytime soon," Kalonzo said.

The VP said he was in politics to stay and that he will never quit.

Christians in a rare display of unity, set aside their denominational differences and united to pray for the country.

They erected a temporary Alter at Uhuru Park, which will be later be made permanent at a place where the government will decide.

The event marked the culmination of a year-long chain of events across the 47 counties as the country prepares Jubilee (50 years of independence).

Assistant ministers Linah Kilimo and Elizabeth Ongoro were present during the prayers that were attended by thousands of Christians from across the country.