Cord Eldoret rally turns into consultative forum
Cord principal Raila Odinga third (right) accompanied by Moses Wetangula second (right) and Siaya Senator James Orengo during a rally at 64 Stadium in Eldoret town on June 27, 2014. JARED NYATAYA/NATION
What you need to know:
- The Cord leaders, unlike at previous rallies, proceeded to the podium and gave early speeches from the outset before grassroots leaders were given opportunities to express issues affecting the local people.
- Mr Wetangula criticised the government for deterioration of security and challenged the Jubilee government that they had failed in their responsibilities.
Cord leaders turned their much-hyped Eldoret rally into a consultation forum with Kenyans and criticised the government for failing to implement its pre-election pledges.
Unlike previous rallies, Cord principals Raila Odinga and Moses Wetangula took charge of the rally from the start with Mr Odinga leading the crowd in prayer by reciting the words of the national anthem.
The Cord leaders, again unlike at previous rallies, proceeded to the podium and gave early speeches from the outset before grassroots leaders were given opportunities to express issues affecting the local people.
“This is a conversation with the people of Kenya on their issues unlike our other previous rallies,” said former Prime Minister Mr Odinga.
He said the sovereignty of the people rested with leaders whom they have elected but they can take it unto themselves when leadership failed.
Mr Wetangula criticised the government for deterioration of security and challenged the Jubilee government that they had failed in their responsibilities.
“We were told that if we come to Eldoret, there will be chaos. Is there any sign of chaos here?” posed Mr Wetangula amid cheers from the crowd.
“It is safe here. What we are witnessing is peace unlike claims of violence,” he added.
