Deputy President William Ruto has expressed his fears that the upcoming August 9 General Election may be rigged.
Speaking during a peace meeting at the Karson Institute in Loyola University located in Maryland on Wednesday, March 2, the second in command boldly expressed his concerns over the independence of the polls.
He described the current political atmosphere as volatile filled with threats and intimidation that is likely to influence election outcome.
The biggest issue that is on the ballot is democracy of our nation and whether we truly have the opportunity to make free choices devoid of blackmail, threats, and intimidation. That's the matter that is on the ballot," Ruto stated.
He added, " In fact, if you understand a little bit of Kiswahili, that's what informs the current push by many Kenyans to say 'hatupangwigwi' (we cannot be forced to take a particular stand). Meaning we want to make our choices without being choreographed, chaperoned, blackmailed, or intimidated."
The leader of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is expected to face off with Raila Odinga leader of Azimio la Umoja, who already enjoys the full backing of President Uhuru Kenyatta as his preferred successor when he exits office in August.
The DP's sentiments however contradict the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chair Wafula Chebukati's position who has assured the country of free and credible polls.
Ruto is leading the Kenya Kwanza brigade that comprises of Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi and Ford Kenya party leader Moses Wetangula.
Ruto further reiterated his desire to transform the country's economy taking a swipe at Uhuru's economic model which he stated has been captured by cartels.
"There is a feeling that our economy has been captured, brokered and become exclusionist that is why our push we must democratise our economy, make it inclusive, bring all Kenyans on board and ensure that nobody is left behind," Ruto stated.
He however called on US bishops to push for the strengthening of the diplomatic ties between the two countries.
“We are looking forward to a partnership of friends and people of goodwill. America has been a partner and a friend and has stood with us during the good and the bad times,” Ruto remarked.
“With other members of the international community, we are looking forward to working together in that endeavour.”
He was accompanied by Mudavadi and Governors Joseph Nanok (Turkana), Governor Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga), and Governor Salim Mvurya (Kwale).
The former Eldoret North MP also condemned the ongoing diplomatic row between Ukraine and Russia. He further castigated cases of racism meted against some citizens escaping from the disputed regions.
"Whatever is happening, whether it is happening in Ukraine or in any part of the globe is a source of concern for all of us. Even in a situation of war like Ukraine, you still have people who want to practice racism?" Ruto posed.
The second in command is set to hold more meetings with different groups in the US before jetting back in the country to continue with his campaigns.
