Ruto apologises to Raila over attack on his convoy in Uasin Gishu
Deputy President William Ruto has apologised to his political nemesis, the ODM leader Raila Odinga for an attack on his convoy in Soy Constituency, Uasin Gishu County that happened on Friday
Ruto who was addressing journalists at his Karen office after meeting a section of Kirinyaga leaders regretted the incident that saw Odinga’s convoy pelted with stones.
“I take this opportunity to apologise to Raila Odinga for what happened to him yesterday (Friday). It was really unfortunate and I hope those who engaged in this exercise regret what they did,” Ruto said.
The Deputy President said his party leadership will work with security organs to get to the root of the heinous act.
“We will demonstrate our commitment to an election that is peaceful by making sure that we take the necessary steps,” he said.
Ruto who is also the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party leader said the party will take disciplinary action against any of its candidates who may have been involved in the attack on ODM and Azimio-OKA coalition presidential candidate.
“Every Kenyan, politician, leader or candidate must be given the space and opportunity to sell their ideas. Our contest is about ideas that will move Kenya into the future,” he said.
He warned that any UDA candidate who will be found orchestrating or participating in violence will be disqualified.
He warned candidates vying for various elective positions on UDA ticket that the party’s modalities of operation does not tolerate violence upholding that actions will be taken against anyone found culpable of such.
“If the next election is canvassed around ideas, agenda and clarity of vision for our country, all of us will be better as a people, as a nation and as a country,” he said.
Ruto stated that UDA and the Kenya Kwanza fraternity were committed to participating in and facilitating a smooth and peaceful election devoid of disorder.
Yesterday night, Ruto, who will be battling it out with Mr Odinga in an effort to succeed his boss, President Uhuru Kenyatta, during the August 9 polls, said violence tears down the country’s democracy.