Meru MPs dismiss Gema decision

By Patrick Muthuri

Five out of seven MPs from larger Meru are demanding an apology from Minister for Energy Kiraitu Murungi and a retired Methodist Church bishop for making a political decision for the community without consultations.

Mr Mithika Linturi (Igembe South MP), Mr Ntoitha M’Mithiaru (Igembe North), Mr Mburi Muiru (Tharaka) and Mr Gitobu Imanyara (Imenti Central) accused Kiraitu and Gema Chairman Lawi Imathiu of selling out the community for selfish gains.

They distanced themselves from the Gema declaration to support Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta in the presidential race.

"The time when a few people met in boardrooms and decided for the community is over. Any decision must be supported by the public," said Linturi.

They were speaking at Burieruri Boys’ Secondary School in Igembe South during a funds drive.

Linturi said as a leader in the Meru community, he was not invited to the Limuru meeting but added that any presidential candidate is free to visit and seek votes from the Meru community.

Muiru said democracy should take its course.

"We cannot afford to abuse democracy by imposing leaders on people. I cannot follow such a bandwagon," said Muiru.

He said all presidential candidates should be allowed to seek votes countrywide, saying backing one presidential candidate as a community fuels tribalism.

Imanyara said the decision by Gema undermined the concept of democracy, hence violates the Constitution.

"We will fight anyone, big or small, who goes against the Constitution," Imanyara said.

Tigania MP Dr Kilemi Mwiria did not attend the function, but was represented by Imanyara, who announced that the Assistant minister for Higher Education was also not consulted nor invited to the Limuru gathering.

Linturi said they are not ready to join the Alliance Party of Kenya, adding that it is a shame for people to be lured into a bus that has no driver.