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Brian Malila and Wangari Njuguna

National Assembly Justin Muturi yesterday rubbished claims that he is a project of some politicians, saying he is his own man.

 Muturi yesterday vehemently dismissed claims that he has been fronted by powerful forces to vie for president.

 He said he is past being someone’s project and that he is vying for presidency like any other candidate.

 “I do not need to be pushed by anybody to vie for presidency.  I will sell my manifesto to the electorate,”  he said. 

Speaking at St John the Apostle ACK Church, Kanyuambora, in Mbeere North in Embu county, he at the same time urged Kenyans to ignore the narrative that only certain individuals should be on the ballot for presidency.

 “We cannot have certain dominant names every election year, especially in the race for presidency. This seat is for every Kenyan.

That is why I made an announcement that I will be vying for president,” he said.

The Speaker also warned his opponents against forming coalitions for the sake of sharing power but to deliver.

 Responding to a question on whether he is hunting for coalitions, the Speaker  said such coalitions must seek to serve the people.

He also made it clear that if there will be need for any coalition, he will engage only those with high level of integrity. 

 “It is not just enough to say you are coalescing, the coalitions should be people-driven. 

It is good for politicians and political parties to meet and form a coalitions, but you must have the people’s interest at heart,” he said. 

National Assembly Speaker further said he will first traverse the country to meet locals and inform them of his plans once elected president.

  “I have been in politics long enough and I know where to go and what to do in politics,” he said. 

 He said he shall be carrying out his mandate as the Speaker and his aspiration to become the president will not affect his work. 

 Muturi announced his bid to vie for presidency last weekend, a month after being coronated as the spokesman for Mt Kenya region. 

Sharp divisions

 His coronation and declaration has caused sharp divisions in the region with Mt Kenya East demanding that the West must support them to produce the fifth president.

 He also blamed politicians, who have been castigating church leaders for correcting or holding into account leaders who misuse public resources. 

“I will also insist that the church has a big role in the  fight against corruption.

They are also at liberty to ensure public resources are utilised appropriately and diligently,” said Muturi.