Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has turned down a tribunal designed to assess potential running mates, adding a new wrinkle to the alliance’s running mate conundrum.
The secretary to the running mate selection panel, Elizabeth Meyo, said in a press statement distributed to news outlets yesterday that the procedure of screening and eventual choice of candidates had begun, with the former Prime Minister paying close attention to the activity.
“[Mr] Odinga is treating this matter with the gravity it deserves. Between May 4 and 10, all of the renowned Kenyans being considered for this crucial position of service to Kenyans will meet with the selection panel on separate days. We pray for God’s grace, wisdom, and guidance in this crucial and life-changing process,” Ms Meyo said.
The individual must also display selflessness based exclusively on the people’s confidence, as evidenced by integrity in the performance of public tasks and the disclosure of any personal interests that may conflict with responsibilities.
Ms Meyo said the team will finish the exercise on May 10 after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission gave presidential candidates till May 16 to present their deputies.
“After that, [Mr] Odinga would reveal the qualified candidate to the people,” she said.
Some of the people seen as possible nominees include Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc Kenya’s Martha Karua, former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui, Murang’a Woman Representative Sabina Chege, Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho, and Kieni MP Kanini Kega.
The vetting procedure is taking place at a time when Mr Musyoka and his friends have decided not to demand the running mate position, while also disputing why he should appear before the panel.
“This running mate issue is weighing me down and making me want to just go home because I’m not sure if I should be fighting for this.” Last week, Mr Musyoka told the Nation.
“I worked with Mr Odinga in 2013 and 2017, and everyone knows the consequences,” he continued. The Supreme Court disagreed in 2013 that we did not win, but in 2017 the Court said we did. A Raila-Kalonzo ticket, I can guarantee you, is a sure bet.”
