Monday, January 2, 2012

UDM gears up to take control of Rift Valley



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Eldoret North MP William Ruto is preparing to launch a political battle for the control of the Rift Valley bloc ahead of the general election. Ruto has set in motion talks to end wrangles in the United Democratic Movement party through which he will vie for presidency.  The former Higher Education minister plans to start a major UDM membership recruitment drive this month.
MPs allied to Ruto have indicated thatthey are prepared to galvanise support for Ruto in the region to enable him focus on other parts of the country. "We now want to go out and make more friends so that we make UDM more stronger," said Ruto when he hosted Water minister Charity Ngilu in his constituency.
Ruto said UDM will be more action-oriented because the country now requires focused leaders who can deliver on the need for good leadership. UDM, he said, will focus on improving healthcare, employment for the youth, agricultural production and strengthening of other institutions in the country.
Cheranganyi MP Joshua Kutunyi said UDM leaders had agreed to put aside their differences on internal grassroot elections and focus on building a strong political movement with clear visions for the country. "Our plan is to have those living in the Rift Valley to be UDM members regardless of their tribal affiliations as well as strengthen networks in other regions," said Kutunyi.
However, the battle for the control of the region is expected to be tough following reports that Prime Minister Raila Odinga is keen on maintaining the region as ODM's stronghold. Groups and politicians in the region who back Raila's presidential ambitions have began plans to revitalize his campaigns in the area.
Micah Kigen, who is national vice chairman of the Friends of Raila lobby group said they are working on Raila's campaign strategy for the region. "In the next few weeks we will announce our plans because we have already held meetings and agreed on a number of issues concerning the PM's campaigns. On the other hand, Kanu leaders including Gideon Moi and Nick Salat have planned major meetings to strengthen the party's activities in the region.
However, Keiyo South MP Jackson Kiptanui said UDM will be the party to watch in the region this year because they are prepared for a major political contest. Ruto has already set up campaign teams in most regions of the country but his insiders said he would step up his campaigns countrywide.

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