Cord hints at endorsing PM Odinga for race

Members of the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (Cord) have hinted at nominating Prime Minister Raila Odinga as their presidential candidate.

This became apparent on Sunday in Vihiga County when Cord members led by Kangundo MP Johnstone Muthama and drawn from Wiper, Ford Kenya and ODM parties said PM Odinga was suited for the job because of his contributions to the country.

“We are saying ‘Raila Tosha’ because we know what he stands for and would help take the country to where it should be. And so, after March 4 elections, we are confident he will take the oath to be the fourth president of this country” said Muthama.

On Saturday, Ford Kenya party leader Moses Wetang'ula also stated that PM Odinga should bear the Cord mantle.

“We will on mutual agreement front Mr Odinga as the lead soldier in the presidential race to wrestle our opponents” he stated.

Mr Muthama argued it was fair for coalition partners to back Mr Odinga saying that this would be a show of appreciation for his contribution in opening up the democratic space in this country.

While addressing supporters, Mr Odinga accused his opponents of not matching the jubilee name they adopted.

“If you read the book of Leviticus chapter twenty five verse ten, you realise that in the jubilee year all slaves are released," he said.

He promised they would in accordance with the dictates of the biblical call on jubilee free Kenyans from economic slavery as well as return stolen property.

“We will return what has been stolen from Kenyans threefold and ensure equity in the distribution of the country’s wealth. This will be a departure from the current situation where the country’s wealth is only in the hands of a few individuals” he said.

In a sustained campaign for the second day in an area perceived as a strong hold of the UDF party, and by extension Jubilee alliance, speakers at the various stopovers told Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi to join Cord.

“Mr Mudavadi is a protégé in the other camp, he is not his own man but he has rightful place in Cord. He should realise this and save his political fortunes” said Ugenya MP James Orengo.

Mr Orengo added that the DPM had bitten the very finger which had fed him.

“When he had been cast into political oblivion in 2002 who redeemed his fortunes? It is sad today he has turned his back on Raila who did this for him” said Orengo.

Mr Odinga said victory was his for the taking should he get the green light from Cord.

“I can assure you that Cord will win this polls and then embark on national building immediately” said PM Odinga.