MPs full of praise for President’s speech

MPs and Cabinet ministers described as comprehensive, reconciliatory and a farewell speech, President Kibaki’s state of the nation address on Tuesday.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Local Government Musalia Mudavadi said the remarks on regional groupings were timely.

“Soon, you will see that I agree with his sentiments on regional parties,” Mr Mudavadi, who has severed ties with ODM, said.

Naivasha MP John Mututho, however, warned the DPM he was taking a dangerous route.

“The people proposing and supporting Mudavadi for the presidency should slow down and propagate national unity,” he said.

Assistant Roads minister and Kuria MP Wilfred Machage said regional parties tended to relegate marginalised communities and urged parties to ensure greater representation of these communities in top positions.

He welcomed President Kibaki’s warning on cessation calls in Coast, saying they were treasonable.

“Unfortunately the situation has been entertained for too long even by very senior ministers.

“It is high time the danger is seen for what it is. What is happening at the Coast should be contained immediately,” he declared.

However, he added that there could be some genuine historical issues of concern dating back to the colonial times.

Nyando MP Fred Outa said the President should have steered clear of the ICC matter.

Assistant EAC minister and Tigania East MP Peter Munya, however, said the local tribunal option should be supported.

“The ICC process is subject to manipulation and this can cause problems for us,” he said.

Turkana Central MP Ekwe Ethuro said the address was a farewell speech.