Raila extends Olive branch to Jubilee leaders

Prime Minister Raila Odinga addresses a campaign rally at Iten in Elgeyo/Marakwet County on Thursday.  [PHOTO: GEOFREY MWANYANYA/STANDARD]

By Fred Kibor

KENYA: Prime Minister and CORD presidential candidate Raila Odinga on Thursday took his campaign to Elgeyo/Marakwet County with a reconciliatory message.

He promised to unite all Kenyans and fast track reforms and the much needed development if elected.

The Prime Minister said that his many years in politics had given him vast experience to chart a way forward for the country.

He extended an olive branch to his Jubilee Alliance colleagues, saying he had no personal difference with them.

Speaking at a rally at Iten stadium, the PM said he would improve the livelihoods of all Kenyans and urged the locals to desist from listening to propaganda.

“You voted for me in 2007 overwhelmingly and I am asking for your vote once more so that I can implement what I had pledged to you then,” said the premier.

He added: “Simnajua  ngombe yetu ilizaa na ndama ikaliwa na mbwa?” (You are aware that our cow calved but the calf was devoured by dogs), he posed in reference to the bungled 2007 election.

Raila said if elected, his Government would ensure county devolution is implemented fully.

He added that youth and women would benefit from Trust Funds from his Government.

The PM also said agricultural seeds would be subsidised to ensure farmers reap from their investments.

“We will build stores to help farmers store their produce until they find favourable markets for their produce,” Raila added.

Agricultural inputs

Regional Development minister Fred Gumo and The Independent Party leader Kalembe Ndile accompanied Raila.

He said he would ensure that agricultural inputs were provided to farmers on time and at subsidised prices to enhance production and also provide marketing facilities.

On youth and women empowerment, the Prime Minister said his Government would revamp the existing youth and women enterprise funds and scrap the provision of security and interest.

“Under CORD government, men and women over 65 years will each receive a monthly stipend under the old people social safety programme,” said Raila. He added that health centres would be established from the sub-location level to make health services accessible to all.