Elections may be held this year, Raila hints

BY DANIEL NZIA

Prime Minister Raila Odinga has hinted the forthcoming General Election could be held this year.

Raila did not, however, announce the possible date of the election, only saying the country is a few months from the polls.

"It is a few months to the elections. I know when the election will be held but I will say that at a later date," said the PM.

He was speaking at the Machakos Golf Club in Machakos Town when he met ODM party delegates from Ukambani.

The delegates endorsed the holding of the election this year when Raila sought their position.

The ODM leader was accompanied by Cabinet Ministers William Ole Ntimama, Dalmas Otieno and Joseph Nyagah.

Others in his entourage were MPs Fred Outa (Nyando), Pesa John (Migori), former Kibwezi MP Kalembe Ndile and the Machakos County Chairman Peter Mutulu.

During the tour, Raila also announced that Mombasa, Lamu, Kisumu, Mavoko and Isiolo would be made special economic zones to spur the country’s economic growth.

The ODM leader said the new Constitution has devolved power to the regions, adding a substantial amount of the national budget will be allocated to county governments to spur development.

He encouraged women to take advantage of the new Constitution that he said favours them to seek elective positions at all levels to champion their rights.

Ntimama urged Kenyans to Raila’s bid for presidency, saying the country needed change, which can only come through him (Odinga).

"Raila is the only leader who is mindful of the welfare of Kenyans of all shades and communities," said the Narok North MP.