I’m in 2012 race to win, Raila dares rivals

Prime Minister Raila Odinga has predicted major political realignments ahead of next year’s General Election.

The PM challenged other parties to brace themselves for a major fight and expressed confidence that he will capture the presidency under the new Constitution.

“Parties will play a key role in sponsoring candidates for the six elective posts and as ODM, we are ready to battle it out and emerge victorious,” Mr Odinga said on Monday during a fund-raiser at Talau Secondary School in Pokot County.

A section of Rift Valley MPs led by suspended Higher Education minister William Ruto have threatened to quit ODM and the PM has dared them to carry out their threats.

Tired of empty threats

“We are tired of these empty threats. Those who are dissatisfied are free to move out since there are many willing to join us as we hold our elections in April,” said the PM.

He called on Kenyans to elect clean leaders in next year’s polls, claiming that some leaders were out to use ill-gotten wealth to ascend to power.

“I am very clean to lead this country since I have not been involved in any corrupt dealings,” said Mr Odinga. “I can justify the source of my wealth and am even ready to die for the sake of Kenyans,” he added.

He dismissed tribal groupings, saying that genuine leaders need the support of all communities in the country.

“It is wrong for youthful leaders seeking elective posts to dismiss the old guard since even among them there are those with immature brains,” said the PM.

However, Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi steered clear of politics, saying a task force had been set up to look into how County governments will be managed.

Nominated MP Musa Sirma hit out at Mr Ruto’s threats to quit ODM, saying he was free to join a party of his choice. “I am in ODM to stay and fully support the PM,” said Mr Sirma.

Youth Affairs minister Paul Otuoma claimed some leaders were out to use the ICC issue to fan tribal animosity and create instability in the country.

Meanwhile, ODM is planning a national executive council meeting to discuss rebel MPs.

Fisheries minister Amason Kingi said yesterday the party may invoke the Political Parties Act to deal with indiscipline.

“We are going to call a meeting soon to deliberate on the issue of rebel party members,” he said.

The Ruto camp has threatened to vote against the party in the House and thrown its weight behind PNU. Mr Kingi, who is also the acting Medical Services minister and MP for Magarini, said they will enforce the Act to the letter.