Mudavadi trashes rivals’ manifestos

By ROSELYNE OBALA

Amani Coalition flag bearer Musalia Mudavadi has scoffed at some manifestos unveiled by his opponents.

He argued some promises are not sustainable and the new leadership must come up with a robust economic growth plan to be implemented over a period of time.

Mr Mudavadi appealed to voters to back his bid and promised to boost economic growth if elected.

The Deputy Prime Minister advised Kenyans to interrogate promises made by presidential candidates saying some pledges are short-term while others will need support from foreign nations.

Mudavadi warned the country risks being side-lined on investments and credit management, if leaders elected lack international good will.

“Kenya needs to undergo economic reforms to address issues bedevilling the nation. Apart from the local financial incomes, the country must work closely with international community to boost the economy,” he said.

He said past experience at the Finance docket proved it is not an easy task to bring on board the international community if they are not in good terms with the Government.

He added: “It is not dignifying at all to pleaded on behalf of your country when trade relations are not good.”

Mudavadi maintained that despite Kenya being a sovereign state, this would not deter investors from shunning the country.

“People want to invest, this will create an opportunity for more jobs and improved economy,” he said.

He was addressing the Hindu community yesterday, and promised to support them to expand their businesses if elected.

The DPM was accompanied by his running mate Jeremiah Kioni and New Ford Kenya party leader and Justice minister Eugene Wamalwa.

Mudavadi said peace was key to a conducive environment for business to thrive.

“The Government suffered a setback after the post-election violence spending close to Sh16 billion to substantially settle close to 200,000 displaced families,” he regretted.

Mr Wamalwa said Mudavadi was the only presidential candidate not engaging in  politics of witch hunting.

Mr Kioni said the Hindu community has contributed immensely to the country’s GDF and should participate actively in deciding who becomes the fourth president.

“We want all Kenyans to engage in national debate to enable the country elect its president at the first round,” he said, warning a re-run would be costly and might divide citizens along tribal lines.