Saitoti says he is not quitting presidential race

Written By:KNA,    Posted: Sun, Apr 01, 2012

Party of National Unity (PNU) national chairman Prof George Saitoti has told those casting doubt over his presidential bid that he will not bow out of the race and that he is ready for elections at any date. Addressing PNU delegates from Meru County at Makutano, Prof Saitoti said PNU is better placed to uphold Kibaki's legacy. "This country needs a visionary leader to take over from Kibaki. I have decided to go for the presidency and serve Kenyans. I pity those who think that I am not serious about seeking the presidency. We shall meet in the ballot," Prof Saitoti remarked. Prof Saitoti who was accompanied by PNU executive Secretary Maina Kamanda said he opted to remain in PNU due to its track record under Kibaki leadership. "Those who left PNU have been changing parties after every term. We cannot keep defecting into new political parties every general election because PNU has performed. Remaining in PNU is respecting what Kibaki has done for this country," Saitoti remarked. He said the party has complied with the political parties act after they registered members from all part of the country and will soon join the short list of registered parties. The Executive Secretary Maina Kamanda said they have written to the Registrar of Parties to ensure no other party is registered with the name of PNU adding that he will fight such attempts. "Kibaki is in office through PNU party hence what he has achieved is the work of PNU. Those who have left the party are denouncing what the government has done.Others left PNU out of fear of losing to Saitoti," Kamanda said. PNU Meru County coordinator who is also former MP for Tigania East Adams Karauri called for a fair nomination process in the party. Saitoti urged the youth and women to take advantage of the opportunities created by the constitution and actively participate in the party ahead of the general election.