Wetang’ula gets CORD nod for polls

By Robert Wanyonyi

Bungoma, Kenya: Ford Kenya party leader Moses Wetang’ula Tuesday received a unanimous endorsement as the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) flag bearer in the December 19, Bungoma senatorial by-election.

Mr Wetang’ula was unveiled in a ceremony held at Kanduyi Stadium attended by officials and delegates from CORD affiliate parties among them Ford Kenya, Wiper Democratic Party, Federal Party and ODM.

Ford Kenya party chairman John Munyes, who is also the Turkana County senator, presented him with the nomination certificate.

The nomination process was conducted by Ford Kenya elections director Suleiman Murunga, who is also the MP for Kimilili.

His name was proposed for the seat by Kanduyi MP Wafula Wamunyinyi and seconded by Tongaren Ward Representative Elizabeth Tindi.

Speaking after being presented with the certificate, Wetang’ula, whose election was nullified by the High Court, said he was humbled to have been nominated the CORD flag bearer.

“I am humbled by the generosity and love that you have shown me. As the CORD family, we have a principal and policy not to compete against each other,” he said.

He told thousands of his supporters that his journey to the return to Senate had officially begun with his nomination.

“I will engage in peaceful campaigns, with respect for all the competitors. I urge all my supporters to show maturity since CORD is the government in waiting,” he said.

He said he would move with humility to all corners of the county hunting for votes from all communities.

All inclusive

“The Tachoni, Teso, Sabaots and Bukusu together with all communities living in Bungoma are equal partners. It is arrogance of the highest order for some leaders in the contest to treat some communities as junior partners. We are equals and need to work together in mutual respect,” he said.

Wetang’ula will now battle it out with his rival, former Local Government minister, Musikari Kombo, in a ‘rematch’ for the Bungoma senatorial seat.

The former Senate minority leader reaffirmed his commitment to working with other CORD leaders, saying there was need for a strong opposition to provide checks and balances.