Martha Karua to Ruto: Azimo government will protect you

Azimio-One Kenya alliance running mate Martha Karua interacts with Kawangware residents in Nairobi on July 03, 2022. [Denish Ochieng, Standard]

Azimio presidential running mate Martha Karua has assured Deputy President William Ruto of protection under a Raila Odinga presidency.

Addressing rallies in Nakuru and Narok counties yesterday, Ms Karua said Dr Ruto would be treated like a brother and a Kenyan.

“We assure our competitors that we shall protect them. They are our children and Kenyans too. But don’t elect the young man (Ruto) who is full of anger and bile,” she said at Tipis.

The Narc Kenya leader said the DP cannot be trusted with presidential powers since he is likely to be vengeful.

This follows reports that Ruto allegedly plans to probe President Uhuru Kenyatta if he wins the presidency.

Ms Karua challenged the DP to step aside and let Mr Odinga lead the country, describing the former prime minister as a calm and collected leader.

“If you would slap the president, what can you do to an ordinary Kenyan? Just give way, and let your temper cool down. At the right time which God will ordain, you will be considered. Kenya cannot be led with hate and anger,” she said.

She further noted that Dr Ruto’s fallout with President Kenyatta disqualifies him from taking over power.

“If you can’t handle the role of a deputy, then you can’t become a president. Even if we win, I will not start blaming him (Raila) in public. If we have issues to iron out, we shall do it in the office,” she said.

She called on voters to shun politicians dishing out handouts to influence their choices, saying this was a recipe for bad leadership.

“Such leaders if elected will never be there at the time of your need. Don’t focus on their wealth. Focus on what belongs to you, that which you have entrusted with the government,” she said.

Ms Karua vowed to eradicate corruption in government.

“When petty thieves are apprehended they are lynched. When those looting our public coffers are caught, they become instant heroes. This is regrettable. I will diligently fight them,” she said.

Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui urged communities living on the Nakuru-Narok border to maintain peace.

“Peace is the most important thing. There are pending land issues here that cause friction but we have confidence that Azimio will prioritise them in the next government,” said Mr Kinyanjui.

Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina exuded confidence that Mr Odinga’s presidency will unlock the country’s economic potential.

Murang’a Woman Representative Sabina Chege said that Azimio leaders are best placed to lead the country.

“If you look at the leaders in Azimio, you will observe that they are not self-seeking individuals.”