I will champion the rule of law, Omtatah says

Omtatah at the Bunge Towers,Nairobi . July 29th,2024 [Elvis Ogina,Standard]

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who recently announced his intention to run for president in 2027, has pledged to prioritise the rule of law and full implementation of the 2010 Constitution.

Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday as he unveiled his presidential exploratory committee, Mr Omtatah said Kenya’s progress has been hindered by lack of political will to implement constitutional provisions.

“Our agenda is centred on the total implementation of the Constitution. It’s a powerful tool for modernising this country. Specific chapters, particularly on public finances, provide clear guidance, but political will has been missing, making the Constitution appear ineffective,” he said.

He said full implementation of the Constitution will form the foundation of his leadership, with other key issues like poverty eradication and industrialisation following closely.

He stated the importance of a people-driven campaign, noting that it would not rely on huge financial resources but instead focus on engaging Kenyans in meaningful discussions.

“We will hold small meetings across the country to help people understand the critical role of the Constitution and the rule of law. We will show how our national failures are tied to ignoring these principles. Once this link is clear, no amount of money can stop the movement,” he said.

Omtatah dismissed concerns about campaign financing, saying his ideas and track record would resonate with voters. He said his campaign would promote value-based leadership focused on public service rather than personal enrichment.

“We don’t have money to burn, but we have ideas and a solid programme. Our ideas resonate with the people, and we have a history of standing up for what is right,” said Omtatah.

On possible alliances, Omtatah remained open to working with like-minded individuals but maintained his focus was on creating a value-driven movement.

“I am not a loner, but I don’t compromise. If I’m in a team that doesn’t align with the right principles, I move on. However, if we meet like-minded people along the way, we will join forces,” he said.

Omtatah’s presidential exploratory committee, tasked with laying the groundwork for his campaign, comprises ten members.

They include Mary Kathomi Riungu as chairperson, Charles Ole Kabaiku as vice chairperson, Victor Kipngetich as legal advisor, David John Bwakali as political strategist, Hanifa Adan and Julius Okara as the patron. Others are Jude Ogulla as the analytics lead, Purity Ndambuki and Emmanuel Baraka as joint secretaries, and Kevin Kimwatu as the spokesperson.

Riungu stated Omtatah’s ambitious vision, which includes transforming Kenya into a modern, prosperous state.

“Our goal is to raise Kenya’s per capita income from the current $1,900 to $30,000. This will enable full sovereignty and provide quality taxpayer-funded basic education, universal healthcare, and public transport,” she said.

Omtatah vowed to challenge the current administration, accusing it of failing to uphold public service ideals.

“My focus is not going to be diminished, and I am not the one who walks away from a fight, I know there is a fight to dislodge President Ruto from power and that is a fight I am going to take on, to see that come 2027 this country is put under a different leadership,” he said.