Tuju launches presidential bid

Former Cabinet minister Raphael Tuju on Sunday launched his presidential bid for the race to State House.

Mr Tuju says the current ethnic political alliances and his diverse consultation with the youths after the 2008 post election violence have encouraged him to join the race.

“I understand that divisive game of tribal politics is extremely profitable to some, even as it levies a heavy cost on followers. Kenyans have died for their political leaders but I am in the race because of the many unemployed youths and because of tribal alliances, which has dominated our politics,” he said.

“Instead of announcing yet another tribal alliance, I am building a national alliance for peace-loving, honest and hardworking Kenyans in every corner of this country, who share the belief and conviction that this country deserves better,” he added.

He said many young people with abilities to govern Kenya have given up on this dream because they don't enjoy political patronage that has defined this country over the years.

“I am rejoining politics at this critical time in our history to focus on working with Kenyans, regardless of tribe, race, gender or social status to chart our course for a greater future,” he said.

Mr Tuju has already resigned his job as President’s Kibaki adviser to launch his presidential campaign for next year’s election.

Mr Tuju lost the Rarieda parliamentary seat to Mr Nicholas Gumbo in the 2007 General Election, in which he vied on a Party of National Unity ticket against the ODM wave in the region.