Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Chairman John Mbadi has dismissed Deputy President William Ruto’s assertions that there is blackmail, threats, and intimidation in the run-up to Kenya’s presidential election on August 9.
On Wednesday, the DP pleaded with the international community to help in what he called attempts to deprive Kenyans the opportunity to pick leaders of their choosing.
During his US tour, the DP stated at the Karson Institute in Maryland that there were attempts to subvert the people’s will at the voting box in favor of a predetermined outcome by the state.
“The biggest issue that is on the ballot is the democracy of our nation and whether we truly have the opportunity to make free choices, devoid of threats, blackmail and intimidation,” said Ruto.
The ODM chair, on the other hand, has dismissed the DP’s remarks, claiming that they are intended to instill unfounded distrust in Kenyans about the August election results.
“William Ruto is trying to set a stage to dispute the outcome of presidential elections,” said Mbadi, “Not long ago he told us his votes can not be stolen, he told us that even if Oburu is IEBC chair he will win, is he admitting that he has been participating in stealing elections?”
Mbadi, addressing on Thursday at the ODM headquarters in Nairobi’s Chungwa House, added that the ODM brigade is unconcerned about President Uhuru Kenyatta’s endorsement of party leader Raila Odinga as his preferred State House successor.
“Does Uhuru supporting Raila mean that the government is supporting Raila? Uhuru has his rights and we are grateful for the support,” he stated.
“Running for Presidency is a marathon, it’s not a short race, let him come back to Kenya and prepare to be opposition leader,” he added.
Mbadi also welcomed several Tana River county defectors into the ODM party, including Garsen MP Ali Shaka, who left the Wiper Party, and his Galole colleague Said Hirbae, who left Ford Kenya.
