Anti-Terror Bill not targeting Muslims, says VP

Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has said the Anti-Terrorism Bill is not aimed at targeting Muslims.

Mr Musyoka urged the Muslim community to support the fight against terrorism within the coastal region for economic growth.

"I want to assure you my brothers and sisters that the upcoming Anti-Terrorism Bll is not in any way intended to discriminate against Muslims.

"This Bill should not scare you at all as it is for the good of this nation," Mr Musyoka told a leaders meeting in Lamu town Saturday where he opened a Wiper Democratic Movement (WDM) office.

The VP told the leaders among them MPs Shakilla Abdalla (nominated), Johnstone Muthama (Kangundo), Charles Nyamai (Kitui West) that terrorism was a real threat to economic and political spheres in the country.

"This thing (terrorism) needs concerted efforts by all leaders and members of the public if we are to eradicate it once and for all," said Mr Musyoka.

He noted that terrorism does not recognise boundaries, tribe or region and spares nobody.

"We therefore need to crackdown on these extremists who want to cause chaos thus hindering efforts to achieve political and economic growth of our nation," he said.

"If we work together as a team, I am optimistic that this region and the country at large will be terror free."

Put on notice

At the same time, Mr Musyoka put on notice those engaging in drug trafficking.

He said it was disheartening that some individuals were selling drugs to young people, ruining their lives at an early age.

“Those individuals selling drugs to children will face the full force of law,’’ said Mr Musyoka amid applause from the crowd.

Urging the Muslim community to support his presidential bid come the next General Election, the VP stressed the need for Kenyans to vote in capable and trustworthy leaders to steer the nation to greater heights of development.

Mr Musyoka said he was better placed among other presidential contenders to occupy State House citing his wide experience over the last 27 years in government.

"It is for this reason that I am committed for the good of this nation,’’ said the Vice President.

He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the full implementation of the Constitution for the benefit of Kenyans if given the opportunity to lead after President Kibaki retires.

The VP said the Wiper party will ensure equal distribution of resources as enshrined in the new law.