Ongeri denies links to alleged plot to kill PM

Prime minister Raila Odinga (left) hands over the signed performance contract to education minister Prof Sam Ongeri (centre) during a function where permanent secretaries were signing performance contracts at KICC on February 20 2012. PHOTO / PHOEBE OKALL

Foreign Affairs Minister Sam Ongeri has dismissed claims made by ODM chief whip Jakoyo Midiwo that he is part of a plot to assassinate Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“Allegations made by Mr Midiwo are wild and baseless. If he has anything to tell Kenyans, he should come clear and say it,” said Porf Ongeri.

The Nyaribari Masaba MP said he had instructed his lawyers to get the television clip that captured Mr Midiwo's claims made on Saturday in Bondo taking further legal action.

He said that he will not let the matter rest, adding that he was keen to take action.

Prof Ongeri said he had no intentions as alleged by the Gem MP.

He said he was among the team of prominent personalities who spearheaded the Serena talks on how to save the country after the disputed presidential polls in 2007.

“I am always a crusader of peace and not a crusader of discontent and that is what I always preach whenever I am,” said Prof Ongeri.

Prof Ongeri said that remarks of similar nature are what ignited the 2008 post-election violence in the last elections.

He further singled Mr Midiwo as a perpetual detractor dating back to his tenure at the Ministry of Education.

“I am only eight days old in the Foreign Affairs Ministry and they have already started labelling me. Can they give me time to work,” said Mr Ongeri.

He was speaking at Ichuni Catholic Church in his constituency where he attended the Sunday Easter celebrations.