State House responds to CORD criticism

President Uhuru Kenyatta has appointed, among others, former Secretary to the Cabinet Francis Kimemia, former Tinderet MP Henry Kosgey and former Postmaster-General Hussein Ali to chair key boards in the country. (Photo: PSCU)

State House has hit out at Opposition leaders over their criticism of President Uhuru Kenyatta's recent State appointments.

Director of Public Communication Munyori Buku accused Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) co-principals Raila Odinga and Moses Wetang'ula for telling lies.

He said the Head of State appointed "able Kenyans" to steer the country's development agenda, and wondered why Mr Odinga and Mr Wetang'ula would see the appointments through a tribal prism.

The Opposition chiefs have criticised President Kenyatta of dividing the country by appointing individuals from just two communities.

They said Uhuru and his deputy William Ruto have always picked State appointees from their two communities.

On Friday, the Head of State appointed former Secretary to the Cabinet Francis Kimemia, former Tinderet MP Henry Kosgey and former Postmaster-General Hussein Ali to chair key boards in the country.

President Kenyatta also appointed businessman Chris Kirubi, Jimmy Kariuki, Joshua Oigara, James Mwangi, Francis Baya, Paul Tergat and Ronald Osumba.

State House said the individuals appointed were picked based on experience.

"Take Ronald Osumba, for example. He is young and has great ideas on youth affairs and empowerment. The President appointed him chairman of the Youth Advisory Board," Mr Buku said.

He said Oigara and Mwangi have contributed immensely to the development of the country and questioned why CORD leaders would read tribalism in their appointments.