Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has been blamed for picking Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua for Azimio – One Kenya running mate position citing that it was a reactive pick for the coalition after Kenya Kwanza settled on Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua.
Speaking on Friday, 20th May, during an exclusive interview at TV 47 Kenya, Governance Expert Peter Muchendu argued that Rigathi Gachagua is an elected legislator whereas Karua lost Kirinyaga gubernatorial contest in 2017, and therefore, it was Raila’s fault to pick Karua for the principal assistant post in Azimio – One Kenya.
“Martha Karua was a reactive pick for Azimio after Kenya Kwanza picked Rigathi Gachagua. Rigathi is an elected MP whereas Karua lost overwhelmingly in the Kirinyaga gubernatorial race in 2017” said Peter Muchendu
He added that if Azimio – One Kenya coalition was serious about gender equality rule, then Murang’a Women rep Sabina Chege was suitable candidate to fill the running mate slot.
“If Azimio was serious about the gender issue, they would have given Sabina Chege a cabinet position just as they gave the other men who had been shortlisted for the running mate position.
The debate on whether Karua is fit to deputize Raila emerges after the nondescript committee of Azimio – One Kenya advisory panel led by former minister Noah Wekesa (chairman) Elizabeth Mayo (secretary) and Paul Mwangi (legal advisor) vetted and evaluated all the candidates including Wiper party boss Kalonzo Musyoka.
Raila’s move to pick Martha Karua as his running mate prompted Kalonzo to quit the coalition and averred to vie for presidency after picking Narok senator aspirant Andrew Sunkuli as his deputy.
