Kalonzo asks the church to support cohesion report

Wiper Democratic Movement Leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku after attending a church service at Redeemed Gospel Church, Kitengela. [Dennis Kavisu, Standard]

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has asked the church to support the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) report.

Kalonzo was in the company of Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku as the leaders drummed up support for the BBI report during a service at the Redeemed Gospel Church in Kitengela.

Kalonzo said President Uhuru and his government had always been supportive of the church.

"I'm told in many countries, registering a new church is not easy, while here in Kenya we have thousands of them. Worshipers are free to worship without State intimidation. This is a clear indication that the church has a place in the current government and the one that will come," said Kalonzo.

Kalonzo, who is a former vice president, appealed to the church not to reject the president’s initiative that is meant to unite all Kenyans and ensure peace after elections.

He also hinted at a coalition between the Jubilee Party and his Wiper party, saying even a merger is in the offing.

"I want to be quoted correctly, I'm talking about the Jubilee of President Uhuru Kenyatta and not another one, we are prepared to do a coalition agreement and if need be we will even do a merger," revealed Kalonzo.

Governor Lenku urged leaders to have consensus in order to pass the document without leaving other people behind.

"We should all have a consensus and do away with selfish interests, we will arrive at a consensus and drive this process well," said Lenku, as he welcomed further amendments on the report.

Others who spoke were Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua, Wavinya Ndeti, former Kajiado Governor David Nkedianye and former Senator Peter ole Mositet.

The leaders also criticised a member of the BBI task force, Major (Rtd) John Seii, who recently claimed the team did not review the final draft and were ambushed to append signatures.