Over 40 opposition legislators received in Jubilee
What you need to know:
- Deputy President William Ruto introduced the leaders during the launch of the new party at Nairobi’s Safaricom Kasarani Stadium.
- Mr Mung’aro said they joined Jubilee because they want to benefit from the development offered by the Jubilee government.
The new Jubilee Party on Saturday unveiled at least 40 Members of Parliament (MPs), senators and governors - majority of who defected from parties allied to the opposition Cord.
Deputy President William Ruto introduced the leaders during the launch of the new party at Nairobi’s Safaricom Kasarani Stadium.
Some of those who defected include Salim Mvurya (Kwale Governor, ODM), Ukur Yatani (Marsabit Governor, ODM), Ken Lusaka (Bungoma Governor, NFK), Francis Chachu (North Horr MP, ODM), Gideon Mun’garo (Kilifi North MP, ODM), Mustafa Idd (Kilifi South MP, ODM) and Isaack Mwaura (Nominated MP, ODM).
Others are Zainabu Chidzuga (Kwale Woman Representative, ODM), Rachael Nyamai (Kitui South MP, Narc), Regina Ndambuki (Kilome MP, Wiper), James Rege (Karachuonyo MP, ODM), Victor Munyaka (Machakos Town MP, CCU), John Waluke (Sirisia MP, ODM), Masoud Mwahima (Likoni MP, ODM).
Also in the list are Khatib Mwashetani (Lunga Lunga MP, Ford Kenya), John Munyes (Turkana Senator, Ford Kenya), Kisoi Munyao (Mbooni MP, Wiper), Malulu Injendi (Malava, MDP) and Joe Mutambo (Mwingi Central MP, Wiper).
Mr Mung’aro - who was given a chance to speak on behalf of the defecting MPs - said they joined Jubilee because they want to benefit from the development offered by the Jubilee government.
“I used to be on the other side but we have seen what the president and his deputy have done for this country in terms of development, and we do not want to be left behind,” he said.
He added that the Coast region has lagged behind in development even when they unanimously voted for the opposition in the last two elective terms.
Mr Lusaka also echoed this: “I may be short in height, but I see far and I have seen that this is the party to be if we are to develop.”
On Friday, deputy President Ruto had challenged the opposition to a debate on matters development.
“We have repeatedly told our friends in the opposition to sit with us and discuss our score cards,” said Mr Ruto.
President Uhuru said the Jubilee Party is open and challenged the opposition to compete on ideas and development agenda.
“Lets do this and meet in the field then we shall see who has better ideas,” he said.
