ODM-K travellers to UK for party unity talks

By Micahel Mugwang’a

*”ODM-Kenya yesterday officially released the names of its members who will be travelling to London for a reconciliation bid. Some 12 members are expected to go to the English city in an effort to mend differences among presidential hopefuls and their followers.

ODM presidential aspirant Kalonzo Musyoka addresses a rally at Malava Kakamega where he criticised the recent appointments made by President Kibaki. The ODM-K presidential aspirant leave for London this week on a reconciliation mission. Photo SHANGALA JOSEPH

In a statement signed by the party’s secretary-general, Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o, ODM says that the trip was meant to accord the presidential aspirants a chance to meet their supporters in the UK. Prof Nyong’o said the aspirants were travelling on the invitation of the party’s committee in London.

Little opportunity

He denied the impression that it was the threat of a fallout between the aspirants that made the trip necessary.The secretary-general said that though that would have been important, this may not be time for it. “While this is an exercise that the aspirants yearn for, there will be little opportunity for it on this trip,” Prof Nyong’o said.

Seven of the eight members of the party, who have declared interest for its nomination as presidential candidates in this year’s General Election, are expected to leave for London on Thursday.

Among those expected on the trip are Gatundu South MP Uhuru Kenyatta, his Eldoret North counterpart William Ruto, Mwingi North’s Kalonzo Musyoka and Mvita’s Najib Balala.

Other aspirants, Julia Ojiambo- a nominated MP- and Joseph Nyaga, will also be travelling on Thursday.

Lang’ata MP Raila Odinga will be joining the team in London from the US.

Former vice-president and Musalia Mudavadi was, however, not expected to travel for the bonding trip. Also on the trip is Prof Nyong’o, party chairman Henry Kosgey, deputy party leader Mutula Kilonzo and South Mugirango MP Omingo Magara. On the list as well is Ms Janet Ong’era, the executive officer at the secretariat.”*

*”/”*Lifted by Korir and published by African Press in Norway, apn, africanpress@chello.no tel +47 932 99 739 or +47 6300 2525. source.nation.ke