Aspirants call for peaceful polls

Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi holds Sein, a five year old girl, at the Maasai Outreach Mission prayer gathering as the Restore and Build Kenya (RBK) presidential candidate Prof James ole Kiyiapi (left) looks on. The two aspirants on August 26, 2012 asked the Maasai community to support their candidate for the top seat. Photo/GEORGE SAYAGIE

What you need to know:

  • Mudavadi downplays a possibility of reuniting with Prime Minister Raila Odinga
  • PM Odinga urges ODM rebels to rejoin the party

Two presidential aspirants on Sunday took their hunt for votes to Narok County each fronting for the presidency and peaceful elections.

Presidential candidates Musalia Mudavadi from United Democratic Front (UDF) and Prof James Ole Kiyiapi from Restore and Build Kenya (RPK) shared a podium during the Maasai Outreach Mission prayers where they called for the community's support.

Mr Mudavadi downplayed a possibility of reuniting with Prime Minister Raila Odinga in ODM as expressed in some quarters.

Mr Mudavadi said ODM is a “shell” that has been deserted by its original pillars and its in the verge of collapse.

Mr Mudavadi expressed optimism that UDF will form the next government and called for support saying his 20 years experience in politics has what it takes for the seat.

“Those moving round the country saying Mudavadi will not be in the ballot will be shocked when they see us forming the next government,” he said.

The Sabatia MP was accompanied by Heritage Minister William ole Ntimama, Kilgoris MP Gideon Konchella and Narok Senate aspirant Andrew ole Sunkuli.

ODM extends olive branch to rebels

On Saturday during the homecoming ceremony for Industrialization Minister Henry Kosgey in Nandi County, PM Odinga urged ODM rebels to rejoin the party saying that the mission they set out to do in the last poll was unfulfilled.

He added that he will ensure that parliament fast-tracks the Wildlife Bill so that issues on human-wildlife conflicts can be addressed amicably.

On the Mau forest issue, Mudavadi supported the conservation efforts adding that the forest is a critical factor in the safeguarding of the Mara eco-system.

The aspirant called on the Maasai community to position individuals who are well-versed with land issues in the forthcoming County government to avoid conflicts arising from the land.

On his part Prof Kiyiapi who visited the home county for first time since his resignation as education PS, called for peaceful elections.

He appealed to the community to elect him as the fourth president of Kenya.

“My candidature aims at restoring the confidence of Kenyans. My vision is to have a Kenya that each child is can access better education and employment no matter their background,” said Prof Kiyiapi.

Prof Kiyiapi urged Kenyans to maintain peace as the country approaches the General Election.

“It is time to break tribal barriers and embrace peace as a nation which is the best way to boost development in the country,” said Kiyiapi.

He said Kenyans should be wary of politicians who incite them against one another for selfish interests.

Prof Kiyiapi said those doubting his presidential ambition will be shocked as he is ready to bring changes to this nation.

“My record is clean having served this country on different capacities. It has been always my dream to lead this country," said a confident Kiyiapi.